Heteroaryl amides useful as inhibitors of voltage-gated sodium channels

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors of voltage-gated sodium channels. The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising the compounds of the invention and methods of using the compositions in the treatment of various disorders.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119 of U.S.provisional application Ser. No. 60/979,258, titled “HETEROARYL AMIDESUSEFUL AS INHIBITORS OF VOLTAGE-GATED SODIUM CHANNELS” filed Oct. 11,2007, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors ofvoltage-gated sodium channels. The invention also providespharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising the compounds of theinvention and methods of using the compositions in the treatment ofvarious disorders.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Na channels are central to the generation of action potentials in allexcitable cells such as neurons and myocytes. They play key roles inexcitable tissue including brain, smooth muscles of the gastrointestinaltract, skeletal muscle, the peripheral nervous system, spinal cord andairway. As such they play key roles in a variety of disease states suchas epilepsy (See, Moulard, B. and D. Bertrand (2002) “Epilepsy andsodium channel blockers” Expert Opin. Ther. Patents 12(1): 85-91)), pain(See, Waxman, S. G., S. Dib-Hajj, et al. (1999) “Sodium channels andpain” Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 96(14): 7635-9 and Waxman, S. G., T. R.Cummins, et al. (2000) “Voltage-gated sodium channels and the molecularpathogenesis of pain: a review” J Rehabil Res Dev 37(5): 517-28),myotonia (See, Meola, G. and V. Sansone (2000) “Therapy in myotonicdisorders and in muscle channelopathies” Neurol Sci 21(5): S953-61 andMankodi, A. and C. A. Thornton (2002) “Myotonic syndromes” Curr OpinNeurol 15(5): 545-52), ataxia (See, Meisler, M. H., J. A. Kearney, etal. (2002) “Mutations of voltage-gated sodium channels in movementdisorders and epilepsy” Novartis Found Symp 241: 72-81), multiplesclerosis (See, Black, J. A., S. Dib-Hajj, et al. (2000) “Sensoryneuron-specific sodium channel SNS is abnormally expressed in the brainsof mice with experimental allergic encephalomyelitis and humans withmultiple sclerosis” Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 97(21): 11598-602, andRenganathan, M., M. Gelderblom, et al. (2003) “Expression of Na(v)1.8sodium channels perturbs the firing patterns of cerebellar purkinjecells” Brain Res 959(2): 235-42), irritable bowel (See, Su, X., R. E.Wachtel, et al. (1999) “Capsaicin sensitivity and voltage-gated sodiumcurrents in colon sensory neurons from rat dorsal root ganglia” Am JPhysiol 277(6 Pt 1): G1180-8, and Laird, J. M., V. Souslova, et al.(2002) “Deficits in visceral pain and referred hyperalgesia in Nav1.8(SNS/PN3)—null mice” J Neurosci 22(19): 8352-6), urinary incontinenceand visceral pain (See, Yoshimura, N., S. Seki, et al. (2001) “Theinvolvement of the tetrodotoxin-resistant sodium channel Na(v)1. 8(PN3/SNS) in a rat model of visceral pain” J Neurosci 21(21): 8690-6),as well as an array of psychiatry dysfunctions such as anxiety anddepression (See, Hurley, S. C. (2002) “Lamotrigine update and its use inmood disorders” Ann Pharmacother 36(5): 860-73).

Voltage gated Na channels comprise a gene family consisting of 9different subtypes (NaV1.1-NaV1.9). As shown in Table 1, these subtypesshow tissue specific localization and functional differences (See,Goldin, A. L. (2001) “Resurgence of sodium channel research” Annu RevPhysiol 63: 871-94). Three members of the gene family (NaV1.8, 1.9, 1.5)are resistant to block by the well-known Na channel blocker TTX,demonstrating subtype specificity within this gene family. Mutationalanalysis has identified glutamate 387 as a critical residue for TTXbinding (See, Noda, M., H. Suzuki, et al. (1989) “A single pointmutation confers tetrodotoxin and saxitoxin insensitivity on the sodiumchannel II” FEBS Lett 259(1): 213-6).

TABLE 1 Na isoform Tissue TTX IC50 Indications NaV1.1 CNS, PNS 10 nMPain, Epilepsy, soma of neurodegeneration neurons NaV1.2 CNS, high in 10nM Neurodegeneration axons Epilepsy NaV1.3 CNS, 15 nM Pain embryonic,injured nerves NaV1.4 Skeletal 25 nM Myotonia muscle NaV1.5 Heart 2 μMArrhythmia, long QT NaV1.6 CNS 6 nM Pain, movement disorders widespread,most abundant NaV1.7 PNS, DRG, 25 nM Pain, Neuroendocrine terminalsdisorders neuroendocrine NaV1.8 PNS, small >50 μM Pain neurons in DRG &TG NaV1.9 PNS, small 1 μM Pain neurons in DRG & TG (Abbreviations: CNS =central nervous system, PNS = peripheral nervous system, DRG = dorsalroot ganglion, TG = Trigeminal ganglion)

In general, voltage-gated sodium channels (NaVs) are responsible forinitiating the rapid upstroke of action potentials in excitable tissuein nervous system, which transmit the electrical signals that composeand encode normal and aberrant pain sensations. Antagonists of NaVchannels can attenuate these pain signals and are useful for treating avariety of pain conditions, including but not limited to acute, chronic,inflammatory, and neuropathic pain. Known NaV antagonists, such as TTX,lidocaine (See, Mao, J. and L. L. Chen (2000) “Systemic lidocaine forneuropathic pain relief” Pain 87(1): 7-17.) bupivacaine, phenytoin (See,Jensen, T. S. (2002) “Anticonvulsants in neuropathic pain: rationale andclinical evidence” Eur J Pain 6 (Suppl A): 61-8), lamotrigine (See,Rozen, T. D. (2001) “Antiepileptic drugs in the management of clusterheadache and trigeminal neuralgia” Headache 41 Suppl 1: S25-32 andJensen, T. S. (2002) “Anticonvulsants in neuropathic pain: rationale andclinical evidence” Eur J Pain 6 (Suppl A): 61-8.), and carbamazepine(See, Backonja, M. M. (2002) “Use of anticonvulsants for treatment ofneuropathic pain” Neurology 59(5 Suppl 2): S14-7), have been shown to beuseful attenuating pain in humans and animal models.

Hyperalgesia (extreme sensitivity to something painful) that develops inthe presence of tissue injury or inflammation reflects, at least inpart, an increase in the excitability of high-threshold primary afferentneurons innervating the site of injury. Voltage sensitive sodiumchannels activation is critical for the generation and propagation ofneuronal action potentials. There is a growing body of evidenceindicating that modulation of NaV currents is an endogenous mechanismused to control neuronal excitability (See, Goldin, A. L. (2001)“Resurgence of sodium channel research” Annu Rev Physiol 63: 871-94.).Several kinetically and pharmacologically distinct voltage-gated sodiumchannels are found in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. TheTTX-resistant current is insensitive to micromolar concentrations oftetrodotoxin, and displays slow activation and inactivation kinetics anda more depolarized activation threshold when compared to othervoltage-gated sodium channels. TTX-resistant sodium currents areprimarily restricted to a subpopulation of sensory neurons likely to beinvolved in nociception. Specifically, TTX-resistant sodium currents areexpressed almost exclusively in neurons that have a small cell-bodydiameter; and give rise to small-diameter slow-conducting axons and thatare responsive to capsaicin. A large body of experimental evidencedemonstrates that TTX-resistant sodium channels are expressed onC-fibers and are important in the transmission of nociceptiveinformation to the spinal cord.

Intrathecal administration of antisense oligo-deoxynucleotides targetinga unique region of the TTX-resistant sodium channel (NaV1.8) resulted ina significant reduction in PGE₂-induced hyperalgesia (See, Khasar, S.G., M. S. Gold, et al. (1998) “A tetrodotoxin-resistant sodium currentmediates inflammatory pain in the rat” Neurosci Lett 256(1): 17-20).More recently, a knockout mouse line was generated by Wood andcolleagues, which lacks functional NaV1.8. The mutation has an analgesiceffect in tests assessing the animal's response to the inflammatoryagent carrageenan (See, Akopian, A. N., V. Souslova, et al. (1999) “Thetetrodotoxin-resistant sodium channel SNS has a specialized function inpain pathways” Nat Neurosci 2(6): 541-8.). In addition, deficit in bothmechano- and thermoreception were observed in these animals. Theanalgesia shown by the Nav1.8 knockout mutants is consistent withobservations about the role of TTX-resistant currents in nociception.

Immunohistochemical, in-situ hybridization and in-vitroelectrophysiology experiments have all shown that the sodium channelNaV1.8 is selectively localized to the small sensory neurons of thedorsal root ganglion and trigeminal ganglion (See, Akopian, A. N., L.Sivilotti, et al. (1996) “A tetrodotoxin-resistant voltage-gated sodiumchannel expressed by sensory neurons” Nature 379(6562): 257-62.). Theprimary role of these neurons is the detection and transmission ofnociceptive stimuli. Antisense and immunohistochemical evidence alsosupports a role for NaV1.8 in neuropathic pain (See, Lai, J., M. S.Gold, et al. (2002) “Inhibition of neuropathic pain by decreasedexpression of the tetrodotoxin-resistant sodium channel, NaV1.8” Pain95(1-2): 143-52, and Lai, J., J. C. Hunter, et al. (2000) “Blockade ofneuropathic pain by antisense targeting of tetrodotoxin-resistant sodiumchannels in sensory neurons” Methods Enzymol 314: 201-13.). NaV1.8protein is upregulated along uninjured C-fibers adjacent to the nerveinjury. Antisense treatment prevents the redistribution of NaV1.8 alongthe nerve and reverses neuropathic pain. Taken together thegene-knockout and antisense data support a role for NaV1.8 in thedetection and transmission of inflammatory and neuropathic pain.

In neuropathic pain states there is a remodeling of Na channeldistribution and subtype. In the injured nerve, expression of NaV1.8 andNaV1.9 are greatly reduced whereas expression of the TTX sensitivesubunit NaV1.3 is 5-10 fold upregulated (See, Dib-Hajj, S. D., J. Fjell,et al. (1999) “Plasticity of sodium channel expression in DRG neurons inthe chronic constriction injury model of neuropathic pain.” Pain 83(3):591-600.). The time course of the increase in NaV1.3 parallels theappearance of allodynia in animal models subsequent to nerve injury. Thebiophysics of the NaV1.3 channel is distinctive in that it shows veryfast repriming after inactivation following an action potential. Thisallows for sustained rates of high firing as is often seen in theinjured nerve (See, Cummins, T. R., F. Aglieco, et al. (2001) “Nav1.3sodium channels: rapid repriming and slow closed-state inactivationdisplay quantitative differences after expression in a mammalian cellline and in spinal sensory neurons” J Neurosci 21(16): 5952-61.). NaV1.3is expressed in the central and peripheral systems of man. NaV1.9 issimilar to NaV1.8 as it is selectively localized to small sensoryneurons of the dorsal root ganglion and trigeminal ganglion (See, Fang,X., L. Djouhri, et al. (2002). “The presence and role of thetetrodotoxin-resistant sodium channel Na(v)1.9 (NaN) in nociceptiveprimary afferent neurons.” J Neurosci 22(17): 7425-33.). It has a slowrate of inactivation and left-shifted voltage dependence for activation(See, Dib-Hajj, S., J. A. Black, et al. (2002) “NaN/Nav1.9: a sodiumchannel with unique properties” Trends Neurosci 25(5): 253-9.). Thesetwo biophysical properties allow NaV1.9 to play a role in establishingthe resting membrane potential of nociceptive neurons. The restingmembrane potential of NaV1.9 expressing cells is in the −55 to −50 mVrange compared to −65 mV for most other peripheral and central neurons.This persistent depolarization is in large part due to the sustainedlow-level activation of NaV1.9 channels. This depolarization allows theneurons to more easily reach the threshold for firing action potentialsin response to nociceptive stimuli. Compounds that block the NaV1.9channel may play an important role in establishing the set point fordetection of painful stimuli. In chronic pain states, nerve and nerveending can become swollen and hypersensitive exhibiting high frequencyaction potential firing with mild or even no stimulation. Thesepathologic nerve swellings are termed neuromas and the primary Nachannels expressed in them are NaV1.8 and NaV1.7 (See, Kretschmer, T.,L. T. Happel, et al. (2002) “Accumulation of PN1 and PN3 sodium channelsin painful human neuroma—evidence from immunocytochemistry” ActaNeurochir (Wien) 144(8): 803-10; discussion 810.). NaV1.6 and NaV1.7 arealso expressed in dorsal root ganglion neurons and contribute to thesmall TTX sensitive component seen in these cells. NaV 1.7 in particularmy therefore be a potential pain target in addition to it's role inneuroendocrine excitability (See, Klugbauer, N., L. Lacinova, et al.(1995) “Structure and functional expression of a new member of thetetrodotoxin-sensitive voltage-activated sodium channel family fromhuman neuroendocrine cells” Embo J 14(6): 1084-90).

NaV1.1 (See, Sugawara, T., E. Mazaki-Miyazaki, et al. (2001) “Nav1.1mutations cause febrile seizures associated with afebrile partialseizures.” Neurology 57(4): 703-5.) and NaV1.2 (See, Sugawara, T., Y.Tsurubuchi, et al. (2001) “A missense mutation of the Na+ channel alphaII subunit gene Na(v)1.2 in a patient with febrile and afebrile seizurescauses channel dysfunction” Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 98(11): 6384-9) havebeen linked to epilepsy conditions including febrile seizures. There areover 9 genetic mutations in NaV1.1 associated with febrile seizures(See, Meisler, M. H., J. A. Kearney, et al. (2002) “Mutations ofvoltage-gated sodium channels in movement disorders and epilepsy”Novartis Found Symp 241: 72-81)

Antagonists for NaV1.5 have been developed and used to treat cardiacarrhythmias. A gene defect in NaV1.5 that produces a largernoninactivating component to the current has been linked to long QT inman and the orally available local anesthetic mexilitine has been usedto treat this condition (See, Wang, D. W., K. Yazawa, et al. (1997)“Pharmacological targeting of long QT mutant sodium channels.” J ClinInvest 99(7): 1714-20).

Several Na channel blockers are currently used or being tested in theclinic to treat epilepsy (See, Moulard, B. and D. Bertrand (2002)“Epilepsy and sodium channel blockers” Expert Opin. Ther. Patents 12(1):85-91.); acute (See, Wiffen, P., S. Collins, et al. (2000)“Anticonvulsant drugs for acute and chronic pain” Cochrane Database SystRev 3), chronic (See, Wiffen, P., S. Collins, et al. (2000)“Anticonvulsant drugs for acute and chronic pain” Cochrane Database SystRev 3, and Guay, D. R. (2001) “Adjunctive agents in the management ofchronic pain” Pharmacotherapy 21(9): 1070-81), inflammatory (See, Gold,M. S. (1999) “Tetrodotoxin-resistant Na+ currents and inflammatoryhyperalgesia.” Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 96(14): 7645-9), and neuropathicpain (See, Strichartz, G. R., Z. Zhou, et al. (2002) “Therapeuticconcentrations of local anaesthetics unveil the potential role of sodiumchannels in neuropathic pain” Novartis Found Symp 241: 189-201, andSandner-Kiesling, A., G. Rumpold Seitlinger, et al. (2002) “Lamotriginemonotherapy for control of neuralgia after nerve section” ActaAnaesthesiol Scand 46(10): 1261-4); cardiac arrhythmias (See, An, R. H.,R. Bangalore, et al. (1996) “Lidocaine block of LQT-3 mutant human Na+channels” Circ Res 79(1): 103-8, and Wang, D. W., K. Yazawa, et al.(1997) “Pharmacological targeting of long QT mutant sodium channels” JClin Invest 99(7): 1714-20); neuroprotection (See, Taylor, C. P. and L.S. Narasimhan (1997) “Sodium channels and therapy of central nervoussystem diseases” Adv Pharmacol 39: 47-98) and as anesthetics (See,Strichartz, G. R., Z. Zhou, et al. (2002) “Therapeutic concentrations oflocal anaesthetics unveil the potential role of sodium channels inneuropathic pain.” Novartis Found Symp 241: 189-201).

Various animal models with clinical significance have been developed forthe study of sodium channel modulators for numerous different painindications. E.g., malignant chronic pain, see, Kohase, H., et al., ActaAnaesthesiol Scand. 2004; 48(3):382-3; femur cancer pain (see, Kohase,H., et al., Acta Anaesthesiol Scand. 2004; 48(3):382-3); non-malignantchronic bone pain (see, Ciocon, J. O. et al., J Am Geriatr Soc. 1994;42(6):593-6); rheumatoid arthritis (see, Calvino, B. et al., Behav BrainRes. 1987; 24(1):11-29); osteoarthritis (see, Guzman, R. E., et al.,Toxicol Pathol. 2003; 31(6):619-24); spinal stenosis (see, Takenobu, Y.et al., J Neurosci Methods. 2001; 104(2):191-8); Neuropathic low backpain (see, Hines, R., et al., Pain Med. 2002; 3(4):361-5; Massie, J. B.,et al., J Neurosci Methods. 2004; 137(2):283-9; neuropathic low backpain (see, Hines, R., et al., Pain Med. 2002; 3(4):361-5; Massie, J. B.,et al., J Neurosci Methods. 2004; 137(2):283-9); myofascial painsyndrome (see, Dalpiaz & Dodds, J Pain Palliat Care Pharmacother. 2002;16(1):99-104; Sluka K A et al., Muscle Nerve. 2001; 24(1):37-46);fibromyalgia (see, Bennet & Tai, Int J Clin Pharmacol Res.1995;15(3):115-9); temporomandibular joint pain (see, Ime H, Ren K,Brain Res Mol Brain Res. 1999; 67(1):87-97); chronic visceral pain,including, abdominal (see, Al-Chaer, E. D., et al., Gastroenterology.2000; 119(5):1276-85); pelvic/perineal pain, (see, Wesselmann et al.,Neurosci Lett. 1998; 246(2):73-6); pancreatic (see, Vera-Portocarrero,L. B., et al., Anesthesiology. 2003; 98(2):474-84); IBS pain (see,Verne, G. N., et al., Pain. 2003; 105(1-2):223-30; La J H et al., WorldGastroenterol. 2003; 9(12):2791-5); chronic headache pain (see, Willimas& Stark, Cephalalgia. 2003; 23(10):963-71); migraine (see, Yamamura, H.,et al., J Neurophysiol. 1999; 81(2):479-93); tension headache,including, cluster headaches (see, Costa, A., et al., Cephalalgia. 2000;20(2):85-91); chronic neuropathic pain, including, post-herpeticneuralgia (see, Attal, N., et al., Neurology. 2004; 62(2):218-25; Kim &Chung 1992, Pain 50:355); diabetic neuropathy (see, Beidoun A et al.,Clin J Pain. 2004; 20(3):174-8; Courteix, C., et al., Pain. 1993;53(1):81-8); HIV-associated neuropathy (see, Portegies & Rosenberg, NedTijdschr Geneeskd. 2001; 145(15):731-5; Joseph E K et al., Pain. 2004;107(1-2):147-58; Oh, S. B., et al., J Neurosci. 2001; 21(14):5027-35);trigeminal neuralgia (see, Sato, J., et al., Oral Surg Oral Med OralPathol Oral Radiol Endod. 2004; 97(1):18-22; Imamura Y et al., Exp BrainRes. 1997; 116(1):97-103); Charcot-Marie Tooth neuropathy (see, Sereda,M., et al., Neuron. 1996; 16(5):1049-60); hereditary sensoryneuropathies (see, Lee, M. J., et al., Hum Mol Genet. 2003;12(15):1917-25); peripheral nerve injury (see, Attal, N., et al.,Neurology. 2004; 62(2):218-25; Kim & Chung 1992, Pain 50:355; Bennett &Xie, 1988, Pain 33:87; Decostered, I. & Woolf, C. J., 2000, Pain 87:149;Shir, Y. & Seltzer, Z. 1990; Neurosci Lett 115:62); painful neuromas(see, Nahabedian & Johnson, Ann Plast Surg. 2001; 46(1):15-22; Devor &Raber, Behav Neural Biol. 1983; 37(2):276-83); ectopic proximal anddistal discharges (see, Liu, X. et al., Brain Res. 2001; 900(1):119-27);radiculopathy (see, Devers & Galer, (see, Clin J Pain. 2000;16(3):205-8; Hayashi N et al., Spine. 1998; 23(8):877-85); chemotherapyinduced neuropathic pain (see, Aley, K. O., et al., Neuroscience. 1996;73(1):259-65); radiotherapy-induced neuropathic pain; post-mastectomypain (see, Devers & Galer, Clin J Pain. 2000; 16(3):205-8); central pain(Cahana, A., et al., Anesth Analg. 2004; 98(6):1581-4), spinal cordinjury pain (see, Hains, B. C., et al., Exp Neurol. 2000;164(2):426-37); post-stroke pain; thalamic pain (see, LaBuda, C. J., etal., Neurosci Lett. 2000; 290(1):79-83); complex regional pain syndrome(see, Wallace, M. S., et al., Anesthesiology. 2000; 92(1):75-83; XantosD et al., J Pain. 2004; 5(3 Suppl 2):S1); phantom pain (see, Weber, W.E., Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2001; 145(17):813-7; Levitt & Heyback, Pain.1981; 10(1):67-73); intractable pain (see, Yokoyama, M., et al., Can JAnaesth. 2002; 49(8):810-3); acute pain, acute post-operative pain (see,Koppert, W., et al., Anesth Analg. 2004; 98(4):1050-5; Brennan, T. J.,et al., Pain. 1996; 64(3):493-501); acute musculoskeletal pain; joinpain (see, Gotoh, S., et al., Ann Rheum Dis. 1993; 52(11):817-22);mechanical low back pain (see, Kehl, L. J., et al., Pain. 2000;85(3):333-43); neck pain; tendonitis; injury/exercise pain (see, Sesay,M., et al., Can J Anaesth. 2002; 49(2):137-43); acute visceral pain,including, abdominal pain; pyelonephritis; appendicitis; cholecystitis;intestinal obstruction; hernias; etc (see, Giambernardino, M. A., etal., Pain. 1995; 61(3):459-69); chest pain, including, cardiac pain(see, Vergona, R. A., et al., Life Sci. 1984; 35(18):1877-84); pelvicpain, renal colic pain, acute obstetric pain, including, labor pain(see, Segal, S., et al., Anesth Analg. 1998; 87(4):864-9); cesareansection pain; acute inflammatory, burn and trauma pain; acuteintermittent pain, including, endometriosis (see, Cason, A. M., et al.,Horm Behav. 2003; 44(2):123-31); acute herpes zoster pain; sickle cellanemia; acute pancreatitis (see, Toma, H; Gastroenterology. 2000;119(5):1373-81); breakthrough pain; orofacial pain, including, sinusitispain, dental pain (see, Nusstein, J., et al., J Endod. 1998;24(7):487-91; Chidiac, J. J., et al., Eur J Pain. 2002; 6(1):55-67);multiple sclerosis (MS) pain (see, Sakurai & Kanazawa, J Neurol Sci.1999; 162(2):162-8); pain in depression (see, Greene B, Curr Med ResOpin. 2003; 19(4):272-7); leprosy pain; Behcet's disease pain; adiposisdolorosa (see, Devillers & Oranje, Clin Exp Dermatol. 1999;24(3):240-1); phlebitic pain; Guillain-Barre pain; painful legs andmoving toes; Haglund syndrome; erythromelalgia pain (see,Legroux-Crespel, E., et al., Ann Dermatol Venereol. 2003;130(4):429-33); Fabry's disease pain (see, Germain, D. P., J Soc Biol.2002;196(2):183-90); Bladder and urogenital disease, including, urinaryincontinence (see, Berggren, T., et al., J Urol. 1993; 150(5 Pt1):1540-3); hyperactivity bladder (see, Chuang, Y. C., et al., Urology.2003; 61(3):664-70); painful bladder syndrome (see, Yoshimura, N., etal., J Neurosci. 2001; 21(21):8690-6); interstitial cyctitis (IC) (see,Giannakopoulos & Campilomatos, Arch Ital Urol Nefrol Androl. 1992;64(4):337-9; Boucher, M., et al., J Urol. 2000; 164(1):203-8); andprostatitis (see, Mayersak, J. S., Int Surg. 1998; 83(4):347-9; Keith,I. M., et al., J Urol. 2001; 166(1):323-8).

Unfortunately, as described above, the efficacy of currently used sodiumchannel blockers for the disease states described above has been to alarge extent limited by a number of side effects. These side effectsinclude various CNS disturbances such as blurred vision, dizziness,nausea, and sedation as well more potentially life threatening cardiacarrhythmias and cardiac failure. Such undesirable side effects may beavoided by using a Na channel blocker that exhibit a degree ofselectivity in its activity against a Na channel subtype. However, Nachannel blockers currently in the market lack such selectivity. Perhapsbecause of this lack of molecular selectivity, drugs currently in themarket exhibit use-dependent block and generally show higher affinity atdepolarized potentials resulting in the preferential targeting ofactively firing neurons, believed to be a key factor in the therapeuticwindow of existing Na channel blocking drugs. While every drug has itown unique therapeutic profile, current Na channel blockers aregenerally associated with central nervous system (CNS) andcardiovascular (CV) side-effects, including blood pressure changes,which are often dose-limiting. Dizziness, sedation, nausea, ataxia, andconfusion are some of the specific side-effects observed for phenytoin,mexiletine, and lidocaine.

Accordingly, there remains a need to develop additional Na channelantagonists, preferably those with higher potency and fewer sideeffects.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It has now been found that compounds of this invention, andpharmaceutically acceptable compositions thereof, are useful asinhibitors of voltage-gated sodium channels. These compounds have thegeneral formula I:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof.

These compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable compositions are usefulfor treating or lessening the severity of a variety of diseases,disorders, or conditions, including, but not limited to, acute, chronic,neuropathic, or inflammatory pain, arthritis, migraine, clusterheadaches, trigeminal neuralgia, herpetic neuralgia, general neuralgias,epilepsy or epilepsy conditions, neurodegenerative disorders,psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression, dipolar disorder,myotonia, arrhythmia, movement disorders, neuroendocrine disorders,ataxia, multiple sclerosis, irritable bowel syndrome, incontinence,visceral pain, osteoarthritis pain, postherpetic neuralgia, diabeticneuropathy, radicular pain, sciatica, back pain, head or neck pain,severe or intractable pain, nociceptive pain, breakthrough pain,postsurgical pain, cancer pain, stroke, cerebral ischemia, traumaticbrain injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stress- or exercise inducedangina, palpitations, hypertension, migraine and abnormalgastro-intestinal motility.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Definitions and General Terminology

The present invention relates to a compound of formula I:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein:

Ring B is a 5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl ring having 1-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur,wherein ring B is optionally substituted with up to x occurrences of R³;

X¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are each independently nitrogen or C—R⁴ provided thatX¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are not all simultaneously nitrogen;

R^(A)is selected from SO₂N(R²)₂, SO₂R¹, NR²SO₂R¹;

R¹ is C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to two carbon atoms other than the atomattached to the nitrogen or oxygen atom is optionally replaced with O,S, NR^(N), or C(O);

each R² is independently hydrogen, or C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to twocarbon atoms other than the atom attached to the nitrogen atom isoptionally replaced with O, S, NR^(N), or C(O);

x is 0-4;

each occurrence of R^(N) is independently selected from hydrogen or aC₁₋₆ aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independentoccurrences of —R^(J), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(J), —OR^(J), —N(R^(J))₂,—SR^(J), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,—C(O)N(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)C(O)R^(J), —SO₂R^(J), —SO₂N(R^(J))₂,—NR^(J)SO₂R^(J), —NR^(J)CON(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)CO₂R^(J), —COR^(J),—OCOR^(J), —OCON(R^(J))₂, —SOR^(J), —NR^(J)SO₂N(R^(J))₂, —COCOR^(J),—COCH₂COR^(J), —OP(O)(OR^(J))₂, —P(O)(OR^(J))₂, —PO(OR^(J))(R^(J)),—P(O)(R^(J))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(J))₂; wherein

R^(J) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R³ and R⁴ is independently Q-R^(X);

Q is a bond or is a C₁₋₆ aliphatic chain wherein up to three methyleneunits of Q are optionally and independently replaced by —NH—, —NR—, —O—,—S—, —CO₂—, —OC(O)—, —C(O)CO—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NR—,—C(═N—CN)—, —NHCO—, —NRCO—, —NHC(O)O—, —NRC(O)O—, —SO₂NH—, —SO₂NR—,—NHSO₂—, —NRSO₂—, —NHC(O)NH—, —NRC(O)NH—, —NHC(O)NR—, —NRC(O)NR,—OC(O)NH—, —OC(O)NR—, —NHSO₂NH—, —NRSO₂NH—, —NHSO₂NR—, —NRSO₂NR—, —SO—or—SO₂—; wherein

Q is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R^(Q);

each occurrence of R^(X) is independently selected from —R′, halogen,—NO₂, —CN, —OR′, —SR′, —N(R′)₂, —NR′C(O)R′, —NR′C(O)N(R′)₂, —NR′CO₂R′,—C(O)R′, —CO₂R′, —OC(O)R′, —C(O)N(R′)₂, —OC(O)N(R′)₂, —SOR′, —SO₂R′,—SO₂N(R′)₂, —NR′SO₂R′, —NR′SO₂N(R′)₂, —C(O)C(O)R′, —C(O)CH₂C(O)R′,—OP(O)(OR′)₂, —P(O)(OR′)₂, —PO(OR′)(R′), —P(O)(R′)₂, or —OP(O)(R′)₂;

each occurrence of R is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₆aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrencesof —R^(T), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(T), —SR^(T), —N(R^(T))₂,—NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(T), —COR^(T),—CON(R^(T))₂, —OCOR^(T), —NR^(T)COR^(T), —SO₂R^(T), —SO₂N(R^(T))₂, or—NR^(T)SO₂R^(T); wherein

each R^(T) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or

-   -   any two R^(T) groups, on the same substituent or different        substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each group is        bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered monocyclic aryl        ring having 0-3 heteroatoms independently selected from        nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein said monocyclic ring is        optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of        —R^(R), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(R), —SR^(R),        —N(R^(R))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(R), —COR^(R), —CON(R^(R))₂, —OCOR^(R), —NR^(R)COR^(R),        —SO₂R^(R), —SO₂N(R^(R))₂, or —NR^(R)SO₂R^(R); wherein each R^(R)        is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   T is (CH₂)_(w);    -   w is 0-2;    -   Ar¹ is selected from a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated ring, a 5-6 membered aryl ring, a 3-7 membered        heterocyclic ring having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected        from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur, a 5-6 membered heteroaryl ring        having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen,        oxygen, or sulfur, or an 8-12 membered saturated, partially        unsaturated, or fully unsaturated bicyclic ring system having        0-5 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or        sulfur; wherein    -   Ar¹ is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences        of —R^(W), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(W), —OR^(W), —N(R^(W)) ₂,        —SR^(W), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,        —C(O)N(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)C(O)R^(W), —SO₂R^(W), —SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —NR^(W)SO₂R^(W), —NR^(W)CON(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)CO₂R^(W), —COR^(W),        —OCOR^(W), —OCON(R^(W))₂, —SOR^(W), —NR^(W)SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —COCOR^(W), —COCH₂COR^(W), —OP(O)(OR^(W))₂, —P(O)(OR^(W))₂,        —PO(OR^(W))(R^(W)), —P(O)(R^(W))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(W))₂; wherein        -   R^(W) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   R^(Q) is selected from halogen, —R^(S), —N(R^(S))₂, —SR^(S),        —OR^(S), C₃₋₁₀ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-10 membered        heteroaryl, 5-10 membered heterocyclyl, oxo, thioxo,        —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —NO₂, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃,        —CO₂R^(S), —COR^(S), —OC(O)R^(S) or —NR^(S)C(O)R^(S); wherein        -   R^(S) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(Q) or two R^(S) groups, or any combination of an        R^(Q) group with an R^(S) group on the same substituent or        different substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each        group is bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or        partially unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered        monocyclic aryl ring; each ring having 0-3 heteroatoms        independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein        any of said monocyclic ring is optionally substituted with 1-3        independent occurrences of R^(O), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(O),        —SR^(O), —N(R^(O))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(O), —COR^(O), —CON(R^(O))₂, —OCOR^(O), —NR^(O)COR^(O),        —SO₂R^(O), —SO₂N(R^(O))₂, or —NR^(O)SO₂R^(O); wherein        -   R^(O) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R′ is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₈aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, a heteroaryl ring having 5-10 ring atoms, or aheterocyclyl ring having 3-10 ring atoms, or wherein R and R′ takentogether with the atom(s) to which they are bound, or two occurrences ofR′ taken together with the atom(s) to which they are bound, form a 5-8membered cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, aryl, or heteroaryl ring having 0-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur;wherein said C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, heteroaryl ring or heterocyclylring is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences ofR^(I), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(I), —SR^(I), —N(R^(I))₂, —NO₂,—C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(I), —COR^(I), —CONHR^(I),—OCOR^(I), —NR^(I)COR^(I), —SO₂R^(I), —SO₂N(R^(I))₂, or —NR^(I)SO₂R^(I);wherein

R^(I) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic.

Compounds of this invention include those described generally above, andare further illustrated by the classes, subclasses, and speciesdisclosed herein. As used herein, the following definitions shall applyunless otherwise indicated. For purposes of this invention, the chemicalelements are identified in accordance with the Periodic Table of theElements, CAS version, Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, 75^(th) Ed.Additionally, general principles of organic chemistry are described in“Organic Chemistry”, Thomas Sorrell, University Science Books,Sausalito: 1999, and “March's Advanced Organic Chemistry”, 5^(th) Ed.,Ed.: Smith, M. B. and March, J., John Wiley & Sons, New York: 2001, theentire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

As described herein, compounds of the invention may optionally besubstituted with one or more substituents, such as are illustratedgenerally above, or as exemplified by particular classes, subclasses,and species of the invention. It will be appreciated that the phrase“optionally substituted” is used interchangeably with the phrase“substituted or unsubstituted.” In general, the term “substituted”,whether preceded by the term “optionally” or not, refers to thereplacement of hydrogen radicals in a given structure with the radicalof a specified substituent. Unless otherwise indicated, an optionallysubstituted group may have a substituent at each substitutable positionof the group. When more than one position in any given structure may besubstituted with more than one substituent selected from a specifiedgroup, the substituent may be either the same or different at eachposition.

As described herein, when the term “optionally substituted” precedes alist, said term refers to all of the subsequent substitutable groups inthat list. For example, if X is halogen; optionally substituted C₁₋₃alkyl or phenyl; X may be either optionally substituted alkyl oroptionally substituted phenyl. Likewise, if the term “optionallysubstituted” follows a list, said term also refers to all of thesubstitutable groups in the prior list unless otherwise indicated. Forexample: if X is halogen, C₁₋₃ alkyl, or phenyl, wherein X is optionallysubstituted by J^(X), then both C₁₋₃ alkyl and phenyl may be optionallysubstituted by J^(X). As is apparent to one having ordinary skill in theart, groups such as H, halogen, NO₂, CN, NH₂, OH, or OCF₃ would not beincluded because they are not substitutable groups. If a substituentradical or structure is not identified or defined as “optionallysubstituted,” the substituent radical or structure is unsubstituted.

Combinations of substituents envisioned by this invention are preferablythose that result in the formation of stable or chemically feasiblecompounds. The term “stable”, as used herein, refers to compounds thatare not substantially altered when subjected to conditions to allow fortheir production, detection, and preferably their recovery,purification, and use for one or more of the purposes disclosed herein.In some embodiments, a stable compound or chemically feasible compoundis one that is not substantially altered when kept at a temperature of40° C. or less, in the absence of moisture or other chemically reactiveconditions, for at least a week.

The term “aliphatic” or “aliphatic group”, as used herein, means astraight-chain (i.e., unbranched) or branched, substituted orunsubstituted hydrocarbon chain that is completely saturated or thatcontains one or more units of unsaturation. Unless otherwise specified,aliphatic groups contain 1-20 aliphatic carbon atoms. In someembodiments, aliphatic groups contain 1-10 aliphatic carbon atoms. Inother embodiments, aliphatic groups contain 1-8 aliphatic carbon atoms.In still other embodiments, aliphatic groups contain 1-6 aliphaticcarbon atoms, and in yet other embodiments aliphatic groups contain 1-4aliphatic carbon atoms. Suitable aliphatic groups include, but are notlimited to, linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl,alkenyl, or alkynyl groups. Further examples of aliphatic groupsinclude, but are not limited to, methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl,isopropyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl, tert-butyl, n-pentyl, n-heptyl, or2-ethylhexyl. The terms “alkyl” and the prefix “alk-”, as used herein,are inclusive of both straight chain and branched saturated carbonchain.

The term “alkylene”, as used herein, represents a saturated divalentstraight or branched chain hydrocarbon group and is exemplified bymethylene, ethylene, isopropylene and the like. The term “alkylidene,”as used herein, represents a divalent straight chain alkyl linkinggroup.

The term “alkenyl”, as used herein, refers to an aliphatic carbon groupthat contains 2-8 (e.g., 2-6 or 2-4) carbon atoms and at least onecarbon-carbon double bond. Like an alkyl group, an alkenyl group can bestraight or branched. Examples of an alkenyl group include, but are notlimited to, allyl, isoprenyl, 2-butenyl, and 2-hexenyl.

The term “alkynyl”, as used herein, refers to an aliphatic carbon groupthat contains 2-8 (e.g., 2-6 or 2-4) carbon atoms and has at least onecarbon-carbon triple bond. An alkynyl group can be straight or branched.Examples of an alkynyl group include, but are not limited to, propargyland butynyl.

The term “cycloaliphatic” (or “carbocycle”), as used herein, refers to amonocyclic C₃-C₈ hydrocarbon or bicyclic C₈-C₁₂ hydrocarbon that iscompletely saturated or that contains one or more units of unsaturation,but which is not aromatic, that has a single point of attachment to therest of the molecule, and wherein any individual ring in said bicyclicring system has 3-7 members. Suitable cycloaliphatic groups include, butare not limited to, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, and cycloalkynyl. Furtherexamples of aliphatic groups include cyclopentyl, cyclopentenyl,cyclohexyl, cyclohexenyl, cycloheptyl, and cycloheptenyl

The term “heteroaliphatic”, as used herein, means aliphatic groupswherein one or two carbon atoms are independently replaced by one ormore of oxygen, sulfur, nitrogen, phosphorus, or silicon.Heteroaliphatic groups may be substituted or unsubstituted, branched orunbranched, cyclic or acyclic, and include “heterocycle”,“heterocyclyl”, “heterocycloaliphatic”, or “heterocyclic” groups.

The term “heterocycle”, “heterocyclyl”, “heterocycloaliphatic”, or“heterocyclic”, as used herein, means non-aromatic, monocyclic,bicyclic, or tricyclic ring systems in which one or more ring members isan independently selected heteroatom. In some embodiments, the“heterocycle”, “heterocyclyl”, “heterocycloaliphatic”, or“heterocyclic”group has three to fourteen ring members in which one ormore ring members is a heteroatom independently selected from oxygen,sulfur, nitrogen, or phosphorus, and each ring in the system contains 3to 8 ring members.

Examples of heterocyclic rings include, but are not limited to, thefollowing monocycles: tetrahydrofuran-2-yl, tetrahydrofuran-3-yl,tetrahydrothiophen-2-yl, tetrahydrothiophen-3-yl, 2-morpholino,3-morpholino, 4-morpholino, 2-thiomorpholino, 3-thiomorpholino,4-thiomorpholino, pyrrolidin-1-yl, pyrrolidin-2-yl, pyrrolidin-3-yl,tetrahydropiperazin-1-yl, tetrahydropiperazin-2-yl,tetrahydropiperazin-3-yl, piperidin-1-yl, piperidin-2-yl,piperidin-3-yl, piperidin-4-yl, pyrazolin-1-yl, pyrazolin-3-yl,pyrazolin-4-yl, pyrazolin-5-yl, thiazolidin-2-yl, thiazolidin-3-yl,thiazolidin-4-yl, thiazolidin-5-yl, imidazolidin-1-yl,imidazolidin-2-yl, imidazolidin-4-yl, imidazolidin-5-yl; and thefollowing bicycles: 3-1H-benzimidazol-2-one,3-(1-alkyl)-benzimidazol-2-one, indolinyl, tetrahydroquinolinyl,tetrahydroisoquinolinyl, benzothiolane, benzodithiane, and1,3-dihydro-imidazol-2-one.

The term “heteroatom”, as used herein, means one or more of oxygen,sulfur, nitrogen, phosphorus, or silicon (including, any oxidized formof nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, or silicon; the quaternized form of anybasic nitrogen or; a substitutable nitrogen of a heterocyclic ring, forexample N (as in 3,4-dihydro-2H-pyrrolyl), NH (as in pyrrolidinyl) orNR+ (as in N-substituted pyrrolidinyl)).

The term “unsaturated”, as used herein, means that a moiety has one ormore units of unsaturation.

The term “alkoxy”, or “thioalkyl”, as used herein, refers to an alkylgroup, as previously defined, attached to the principal carbon chainthrough an oxygen (“alkoxy”) or sulfur (“thioalkyl”) atom.

The terms “haloalkyl”, “haloalkenyl” and “haloalkoxy” refers to alkyl,alkenyl or alkoxy, as the case may be, substituted with one or morehalogen atoms.

The term, a “haloaliphatic” group refers to an aliphatic groupsubstituted with 1-3 halogen. For instance, the term haloalkyl includesthe group —CF₃.

The term “halogen” or “halo”, as used herein, refers to fluorine,chlorine, bromine or iodine.

The term “oxo”, as used herein, refers to ═O.

The term “thioxo”, as used herein, refers to ═S.

The term “carbonyl” group refers to —C(O)—.

The term “aryl” used alone or as part of a larger moiety as in“aralkyl”, “aralkoxy”, or “aryloxyalkyl”, refers to monocyclic (e.g.,phenyl); bicyclic (e.g., indenyl, naphthalenyl, tetrahydronaphthyl,tetrahydroindenyl); and tricyclic (e.g., fluorenyl tetrahydrofluorenyl,or tetrahydroanthracenyl, anthracenyl) ring systems in which themonocyclic ring system is aromatic or at least one of the rings in abicyclic or tricyclic ring system is aromatic and wherein each ring inthe system contains 3 to 7 ring members. The bicyclic and tricyclicgroups include benzofused 2- to 3-membered carbocyclic rings. Forexample, a benzofused group includes phenyl fused with two or more C₄₋₈carbocyclic moieties. The term “aryl” may be used interchangeably withthe term “aryl ring.”

The term a “bicyclic ring system”, as used herein, includes 8- to 12 -(e.g., 9, 10, or 11) membered structures that form two rings, whereinthe two rings have at least one atom in common (e.g., 2 atoms incommon). Bicyclic ring systems include bicycloaliphatics (e.g.,bicycloalkyl or bicycloalkenyl), bicycloheteroaliphatics, bicyclicaryls, and bicyclic heteroaryls.

The term “heteroaryl,” used alone or as part of a larger moiety as in“heteroaralkyl,” or “heteroarylalkoxy,” refers to monocyclic, bicyclic,and tricyclic ring systems having a total of five to fourteen ringmembers, wherein at least one ring in the system is aromatic, at leastone ring in the system contains one or more heteroatoms (e.g., N, O, S,or combinations thereof), wherein each ring in the system contains 3 to7 ring members and that has a single point of attachment to the rest ofthe molecule. A heteroaryl group includes a benzofused ring systemhaving 2 to 3 rings. For example, a benzofused group includes benzofused with one or two 4 to 8 membered heterocycloaliphatic moieties(e.g., indolizyl, indolyl, isoindolyl, 3H-indolyl, indolinyl,benzo[b]furyl, benzo[b]thiophenyl, quinolinyl, or isoquinolinyl). Theterm “heteroaryl” may be used interchangeably with the term “heteroarylring” or the term “heteroaromatic .”

Without limitation, monocyclic heteroaryl rings include the following:furanyl (e.g., furan-2-yl or furan-3-yl); imidazolyl (e.g.,N-imidazolyl, imidazol-2-yl, imidazol-4-yl, or imidazol-5-yl);isoxazolyl (e.g., isoxazol-3-yl, isoxazol-4-yl, isoxazol-5-yl); oxazolyl(e.g., oxazol-2-yl, oxazol-4-yl, or oxazol-5-yl); pyrrolyl (e.g.,N-pyrrolyl, pyrrol-2-yl, or pyrrol-3-yl); pyridinyl (e.g., pyrid-2-yl,pyrid-3-yl, or pyrid-4-yl); pyrimidinyl (e.g., pyrimidin-2-yl,pyrimidin-4-yl, or pyrimidin-5-yl); pyridazinyl (e.g., pyridazin-3-yl,pyridazin-4-yl, pyridazin-5-yl, or pyridazin-6-yl); thiazolyl (e.g.,thiazol-2-yl, thiazol-4-yl, or thiazol-5-yl); tetrazolyl (e.g.,tetrazol-1-yl or tetrazol-5-yl); triazolyl (e.g., 2-triazolyl or5-triazolyl), thienyl (e.g., thiophen-2-yl or thiophen-3-yl); pyrazolyl(e.g., pyrazol-2-yl, pyrazol-3-yl, or pyrazol-4-yl); isothiazolyl;1,2,3-oxadiazolyl; 1,2,5-oxadiazolyl; 1,2,4-oxadiazolyl;1,2,3-triazolyl; 1,2,3-thiadiazolyl;1,3,4-thiadiazolyl;1,2,5-thiadiazolyl; pyrazinyl; 1,3,5-triazinyl.Monocyclic heteroaryls are numbered according to standard chemicalnomenclature.

Without limitation bicyclic heteroaryls include the following:indolizyl, indolyl, isoindolyl, 3H-indolyl, indolinyl, benzo[b]furyl,benzo[b]thiophenyl, quinolinyl (e.g., 2-quinolinyl, 3-quinolinyl, or4-quinolinyl), isoquinolinyl (e.g., 1-isoquinolinyl, 3-isoquinolinyl, or4-isoquinolinyl), indolizyl, isoindolyl, indolyl, benzo[b]furyl,bexo[b]thiophenyl, indazolyl, benzimidazyl, benzthiazolyl, purinyl,4H-quinolizyl, quinolyl, isoquinolyl, cinnolyl, phthalazyl, quinazolyl,quinoxalyl, 1,8-naphthyridyl, or pteridyl. Bicyclic heteroaryls arenumbered according to standard chemical nomenclature.

In some embodiments, an aryl (including aralkyl, aralkoxy, aryloxyalkyland the like) or heteroaryl (including heteroaralkyl andheteroarylalkoxy and the like) group may contain one or moresubstituents. Suitable substituents on the unsaturated carbon atom of anaryl or heteroaryl group are selected from those listed in thedefinition of R³, R⁴, R⁵, R^(N), R^(J), R^(Q), R^(X), R′ or R^(W). Othersuitable substituents include: halogen; —R^(o); —OR^(o); —SR^(o);1,2-methylenedioxy; 1,2-ethylenedioxy; phenyl (Ph) optionallysubstituted with R^(o); —O(Ph) optionally substituted with R^(o);—(CH₂)₁₋₂(Ph), optionally substituted with R^(o); —CH═CH(Ph), optionallysubstituted with R^(o); —NO₂; —CN; —N(R^(o))₂; —NR^(o)C(O)R^(o);—NR^(o)C(S)R^(o); —NR^(o)C(O)N(R^(o))₂; —NR^(o)C(S)N(R^(o))₂;—NR^(o)CO₂R^(o); —NR^(o)NR^(o)C(O)R^(o); —NR^(o)NR^(o)C(O)N(R^(o))₂;—NR^(o)NR^(o) CO₂R^(o); —C(O)C(O)R^(o); —C(O)CH₂C(O)R^(o); —CO₂R^(o);—C(O)R^(o); —C(S)R^(o); —C(O)N(R^(o))₂; —C(S)N(R^(o))₂; —OC(O)N(R^(o))₂;—OC(O)R^(o); —C(O)N(OR^(o))R^(o); —C(NOR^(o))R^(o); —S(O)₂R^(o);—S(O)₂OR^(o); —S(O)₂N(R^(o))₂; —S(O)R^(o); —NR^(o)S(O)₂N(R^(o))₂;—NR^(o)S(O)₂R^(o); —N(OR^(o))R^(o); —C(═NH)—N(R^(o))₂;—(CH₂)₀₋₂NHC(O)R^(o); -L-R^(o); -L-N(R^(o))₂; -L-SR^(o); -L-OR^(o);-L-(C₃₋₁₀ cycloaliphatic), -L-(C₆₋₁₀ aryl), -L-(5-10 memberedheteroaryl), -L-(5-10 membered heterocyclyl), oxo, C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,C₁₋₄haloalkyl, -L-NO₂, -L-CN, -L-OH, -L-CF₃; or two substituents,together with the intervening atoms to which they are bound, form a 5-7membered saturated, unsaturated, or partially saturated ring, wherein Lis a C₁₋₆ alkylene group in which up to three methylene units arereplaced by —NH—, —NR^(o)—, —O—, —S—, —C(O)O—, —OC(O)—, —C(O)CO—,—C(O)—, —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NR^(o)—, —C(═N—CN), —NHCO—, —NR^(o)CO—,—NHC(O)O—, —NR^(o)C(O)O—, —S(O)₂NH—, —S(O)₂NR^(o)—, —NHS(O)₂—,—NR^(o)S(O)₂—, —NHC(O)NH—, —NR^(o)C(O)NH—, —NHC(O)NR^(o)—,—NR^(o)C(O)NR^(o), —OC(O)NH—, —OC(O)NR^(o)—, —NHS(O)₂NH—,—NR^(o)S(O)₂NH—, —NHS(O)₂NR^(o)—, —NR^(o)S(O)₂NR^(o)—, —S(O)—, or—S(O)₂—, and wherein each independent occurrence of R^(o) is selectedfrom hydrogen, optionally substituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic, an unsubstituted5-8 membered heteroaryl or heterocyclic ring, phenyl, —O(Ph), or—CH₂(Ph), or, two independent occurrences of R^(o), on the samesubstituent or different substituents, taken together with the atom(s)to which each R^(o) group is bound, form a 5-8-membered heterocyclyl,aryl, or heteroaryl ring or a 3-8-membered cycloalkyl ring, wherein saidheteroaryl or heterocyclyl ring has 1-3 heteroatoms independentlyselected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur. Optional substituents on thealiphatic group of R^(o) are selected from NH₂, NH(C₁₋₄aliphatic),N(C₁₋₄aliphatic)₂, halogen, C₁₋₄aliphatic, OH, O(C₁₋₄aliphatic), NO₂,CN, CO₂H, CO₂(C₁₋₄aliphatic), O(haloC₁₋₄ aliphatic), orhaloC₁₋₄aliphatic, wherein each of the foregoing C₁₋₄aliphatic groups ofR^(o) is unsubstituted.

In some embodiments, an aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, heteroaliphaticgroup, or a non-aromatic heterocyclic ring may contain one or moresubstituents. In some instances two substituents, on the same atom or ondifferent atoms, together with the intervening atoms to which they arebound, form a 5-7 membered saturated, unsaturated, or partiallysaturated ring containing 0-3 heteroatoms selected from N, O, or S.Suitable substituents on the saturated carbon of an aliphatic orheteroaliphatic group, or of a non-aromatic heterocyclic ring areselected from those listed above for the unsaturated carbon of an arylor heteroaryl group and additionally include the following: ═O, ═S,═NNHR*, ═NN(R*)₂, ═NNHC(O)R*, ═NNHCO₂(alkyl), ═NNHS(O)₂ (alkyl), or═NR*, where each R* is independently selected from hydrogen or anoptionally substituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic, or two R* on the same nitrogenare taken together with the nitrogen to form a 5-8 membered heterocyclylor heteroaryl ring having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected fromnitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur. Optional substituents on the aliphaticgroup of R* are selected from NH₂, NH(C₁₋₄ aliphatic), N(C₁₋₄aliphatic)₂, halogen, C₁₋₄ aliphatic, OH, O(C₁₋₄ aliphatic), NO₂, CN,CO₂H, CO₂(C₁₋₄ aliphatic), O(halo C₁₋₄ aliphatic), or halo(C₁₋₄aliphatic), wherein each of the foregoing C₁₋₄aliphatic groups of R* isunsubstituted.

In some embodiments, optional substituents on the nitrogen of anon-aromatic heterocyclic ring include —R⁺, —N(R⁺)₂, —C(O)R⁺, —C(O)OR⁺,—C(O)C(O)R⁺, —C(O)CH₂C(O)R³⁰ , —S(O)₂R⁺, —S(O)₂N(R³⁰ )₂, —C(═S)N(R⁺)₂,—C(═NH)—N(R⁺)₂, or —NR⁺S(O)₂R⁺; wherein R⁺is hydrogen, an optionallysubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic, optionally substituted phenyl, optionallysubstituted —O(Ph), optionally substituted —CH₂(Ph), optionallysubstituted —(CH₂)₁₋₂(Ph); optionally substituted —CH═CH(Ph); or anunsubstituted 5-6 membered heteroaryl or heterocyclic ring having one tofour heteroatoms independently selected from oxygen, nitrogen, orsulfur, or two independent occurrences of R⁺, on the same substituent ordifferent substituents, taken together with the atom(s) to which eachR⁺group is bound, form a phenyl, 5-8-membered heterocyclyl, 5-8-memberedheteroaryl, or a 3-8 membered cycloalkyl ring, wherein said heteroarylor heterocyclyl ring has 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected fromnitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur. Optional substituents on the aliphaticgroup or the phenyl ring of R⁺are selected from —NH₂, —NH(C₁₋₄aliphatic), —N(C₁₋₄ aliphatic)₂, halogen, C₁₋₄ aliphatic, —OH, —O(C₁₋₄aliphatic), —NO₂, —CN, —C(O)OH, —C(O)O(C₁₋₄ aliphatic), —O(halo(C₁₋₄aliphatic)), or halo(C₁₋₄ aliphatic), wherein each of the foregoingC₁₋₄aliphatic groups of R⁺is unsubstituted.

As detailed above, in some embodiments, two independent occurrences ofR^(o) (or R⁺, or any other variable similarly defined herein), are takentogether with the atom(s) to which each variable is bound to form a3-8-membered cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, aryl, or heteroaryl ring having0-3 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur.Exemplary rings that are formed when two independent occurrences ofR^(o) (or R⁺, or any other variable similarly defined herein) are takentogether with the atom(s) to which each variable is bound include, butare not limited to the following: a) two independent occurrences ofR^(o) (or R⁺, or any other variable similarly defined herein) that arebound to the same atom and are taken together with that atom to form aring, for example, N(R^(o))₂, where both occurrences of R^(o) are takentogether with the nitrogen atom to form a piperidin-1-yl,piperazin-1-yl, or morpholin-4-yl group; and b) two independentoccurrences of R^(o) (or R⁺, or any other variable similarly definedherein) that are bound to different atoms and are taken together withboth of those atoms to form a ring, for example where a phenyl group issubstituted with two occurrences of OR^(o)

these two occurrences of R^(o) are taken together with the oxygen atomsto which they are bound to form a fused 6-membered oxygen containingring:

It will be appreciated that a variety of other rings can be formed whentwo independent occurrences of R^(o) (or R⁺, or any other variablesimilarly defined herein) are taken together with the atom(s) to whicheach variable is bound and that the examples detailed above are notintended to be limiting.

In some embodiments, a methylene unit of the alkyl or aliphatic chain isoptionally replaced with another atom or group. Examples of such atomsor groups would include, but are not limited to, —NR^(o)—, —O—, —S—,—C(O)O—, —OC(O)—, —C(O)CO—, —C(O)—, —C(O)NR^(o)—, —C(═N—CN), —NR^(o)CO—,—NR^(o)C(O)O—, —S(O)₂NR^(o)—, —NR^(o)S(O)₂—, —NR^(o)C(O)NR^(o)—,—OC(O)NR^(o)—, —NR^(o)S(O)₂NR^(o)—, —S(O)—, or —S(O)₂—, wherein R^(o) isdefined herein. Unless otherwise specified, the optional replacementsform a chemically stable compound. Optional atom or group replacementscan occur both within the chain and at either end of the chain; i.e.both at the point of attachment and/or also at the terminal end. Twooptional replacements can also be adjacent to each other within a chainso long as it results in a chemically stable compound. Unless otherwisespecified, if the replacement occurs at the terminal end, thereplacement atom is bound to an H on the terminal end. For example, ifone methylene unit of —CH₂CH₂CH₃ was optionally replaced with —O—, theresulting compound could be —OCH₂CH₃, —CH₂OCH₃, or —CH₂CH₂OH.

As described herein, a bond drawn from a substituent to the center ofone ring within a multiple-ring system (as shown below) representssubstitution of the substituent at any substitutable position in any ofthe rings within the multiple ring system. For example, Figure arepresents possible substitution in any of the positions shown in Figureb.

This also applies to multiple ring systems fused to optional ringsystems (which would be represented by dotted lines). For example, inFigure c, X is an optional substituent both for ring D and ring E.

If, however, two rings in a multiple ring system each have differentsubstituents drawn from the center of each ring, then, unless otherwisespecified, each substituent only represents substitution on the ring towhich it is attached. For example, in Figure d, Y is an optionallysubstituent for ring D only, and X is an optional substituent for ring Eonly.

The term “protecting group,” as used herein, represent those groupsintended to protect a functional group, such as, for example, analcohol, amine, carboxyl, carbonyl, etc., against undesirable reactionsduring synthetic procedures. Commonly used protecting groups aredisclosed in Greene and Wuts, Protective Groups in Organic Synthesis,3^(d) Edition (John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1999), which is incorporatedherein by reference. Examples of nitrogen protecting groups includeacyl, aroyl, or carbamyl groups such as formyl, acetyl, propionyl,pivaloyl, t-butylacetyl, 2-chloroacetyl, 2-bromoacetyl, trifluoroacetyl,trichloroacetyl, phthalyl, o-nitrophenoxyacetyl, α-chlorobutyryl,benzoyl, 4-chlorobenzoyl, 4-bromobenzoyl, 4-nitrobenzoyl and chiralauxiliaries such as protected or unprotected D, L or D, L-amino acidssuch as alanine, leucine, phenylalanine and the like; sulfonyl groupssuch as benzenesulfonyl, p-toluenesulfonyl and the like; carbamategroups such as benzyloxycarbonyl, p-chlorobenzyloxycarbonyl,p-methoxybenzyloxycarbonyl, p-nitrobenzyloxycarbonyl,2-nitrobenzyloxycarbonyl, p-bromobenzyloxycarbonyl,3,4-dimethoxybenzyloxycarbonyl, 3,5-dimethoxybenzyloxycarbonyl,2,4-dimethoxybenzyloxycarbonyl, 4-methoxybenzyloxycarbonyl,2-nitro-4,5-dimethoxybenzyloxycarbonyl,3,4,5-trimethoxybenzyloxycarbonyl,1-(p-biphenylyl)-1-methylethoxycarbonyl,α,α-dimethyl-3,5-dimethoxybenzyloxycarbonyl, benzhydryloxycarbonyl,t-butyloxycarbonyl, diisopropylmethoxycarbonyl, isopropyloxycarbonyl,ethoxycarbonyl, methoxycarbonyl, allyloxycarbonyl,2,2,2,-trichloroethoxycarbonyl, phenoxycarbonyl, 4-nitrophenoxycarbonyl, fluorenyl-9-methoxycarbonyl, cyclopentyloxycarbonyl,adamantyloxycarbonyl, cyclohexyloxycarbonyl, phenylthiocarbonyl and thelike, arylalkyl groups such as benzyl, triphenylmethyl, benzyloxymethyland the like and silyl groups such as trimethylsilyl and the like.Preferred N-protecting groups are formyl, acetyl, benzoyl, pivaloyl,t-butylacetyl, alanyl, phenylsulfonyl, benzyl, t-butyloxycarbonyl (Boc)and benzyloxycarbonyl (Cbz).

The term “prodrug,” as used herein, represents a compound that istransformed in vivo into a compound according to any one of the formulaelisted herein. Such a transformation can be affected, for example, byhydrolysis in blood or enzymatic transformation of the prodrug form tothe parent form in blood or tissue. Prodrugs of the compounds of theinvention may be, for example, esters. Esters that may be utilized asprodrugs in the present invention are phenyl esters, aliphatic (C₁-C₂₄)esters, acyloxymethyl esters, carbonates, carbamates, and amino acidesters. For example, a compound of the invention that contains an OHgroup may be acylated at this position in its prodrug form. Otherprodrug forms include phosphates, such as, for example those phosphatesresulting from the phosphorylation of an OH group on the parentcompound. A thorough discussion of prodrugs is provided in T. Higuchiand V. Stella, Pro-drugs as Novel Delivery Systems, Vol. 14 of theA.C.S. Symposium Series, Edward B. Roche, ed., Bioreversible Carriers inDrug Design, American Pharmaceutical Association and Pergamon Press,1987, and Judkins et al., Synthetic Communications 26(23):4351-4367,1996, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Unless otherwise stated, structures depicted herein are also meant toinclude all isomeric (e.g., enantiomeric, diastereomeric, and geometric(or conformational)) forms of the structure; for example, the R and Sconfigurations for each asymmetric center, (Z) and (E) double bondisomers, and (Z) and (E) conformational isomers. Therefore, singlestereochemical isomers as well as enantiomeric, diastereomeric, andgeometric (or conformational) mixtures of the present compounds arewithin the scope of the invention. Unless otherwise stated, alltautomeric forms of the compounds of the invention are within the scopeof the invention. Additionally, unless otherwise stated, structuresdepicted herein are also meant to include compounds that differ only inthe presence of one or more isotopically enriched atoms. For example,compounds having the present structures except for the replacement ofhydrogen by deuterium or tritium, or the replacement of a carbon by a¹³C- or ¹⁴C-enriched carbon are within the scope of this invention. Suchcompounds are useful, for example, as analytical tools, probes inbiological assays, or sodium channel blockers with improved therapeuticprofile.

As used herein, ¹H NMR stands for proton nuclear magnetic resonance, andTLC stands for thin layer chromatography.

Description Of Compounds Of The Invention:

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a compound of formulaI:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein:

Ring B is a 5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl ring having 1-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur,wherein ring B is optionally substituted with up to x occurrences of R³;

X¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are each independently nitrogen or C—R⁴ provided thatX¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are not all simultaneously nitrogen;

R^(A) is selected from SO₂N(R²)₂, SO₂R¹, NR²SO₂R¹;

R¹ is C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to two carbon atoms other than the atomattached to the nitrogen or oxygen atom is optionally replaced with O,S, NR^(N), or C(O);

each R² is independently hydrogen, or C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to twocarbon atoms other than the atom attached to the nitrogen atom isoptionally replaced with O, S, NR^(N), or C(O);

x is 0-4;

each occurrence of R^(N) is independently selected from hydrogen or aC₁₋₆ aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independentoccurrences of —R^(J), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(J), —OR^(J), —N(R^(J))₂,—SR^(J), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,—C(O)N(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)C(O)R^(J), —SO₂R^(J), —SO₂N(R^(J))₂,—NR^(J)SO₂R^(J), —NR^(J)CON(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)CO₂R^(J), —COR^(J),—OCOR^(J), —OCON(R^(J))₂, —SOR^(J), —NR^(J)SO₂N(R^(J))₂, —COCOR^(J),—COCH₂COR^(J), —OP(O)(OR^(J))₂, —P(O)(OR^(J))₂, —PO(OR^(J))(R^(J)),—P(O)(R^(J))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(J))₂; wherein

R^(J)is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R³ and R⁴ is independently Q-R^(X);

Q is a bond or is a C₁₋₆ aliphatic chain wherein up to three methyleneunits of Q are optionally and independently replaced by —NH—, —NR—, —O—,—S—, —CO₂—, —OC(O)—, —C(O)CO—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NR—,—C(═N—CN)—, —NHCO—, —NRCO—, —NHC(O)O—, —NRC(O)O—, —SO₂NH—, —SO₂NR—,—NHSO₂—, —NRSO₂—, —NHC(O)NH—, —NRC(O)NH—, —NHC(O)NR—, —NRC(O)NR,—OC(O)NH—, —OC(O)NR—, —NHSO₂NH—, —NRSO₂NH—, —NHSO₂NR—, —NRSO₂NR—, —SO—or—SO₂—; wherein

Q is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R^(Q);

each occurrence of R^(X) is independently selected from —R′, halogen,—NO₂, —CN, —OR′, —SR′, —N(R′)₂, —NR′C(O)R′, —NR′C(O)N(R′)₂, —NR′CO₂R′,—C(O)R′, —CO₂R′, —OC(O)R′, —C(O)N(R′)₂, —OC(O)N(R′)₂, —SOR′, —SO₂R′,—SO₂N(R′)₂, —NR′SO₂R′, —NR′SO₂N(R′)₂, —C(O)C(O)R′, —C(O)CH₂C(O)R′,—OP(O)(OR′)₂, —P(O)(OR′)₂, —PO(OR′)(R′), —P(O)(R′)₂, or —OP(O)(R′)₂;

each occurrence of R is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₆aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrencesof —R^(T), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(T), —SR^(T), —N(R^(T))₂,—NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(T), —COR^(T),—CON(R^(T))₂, —OCOR^(T), —NR^(T)COR^(T), —SO₂R^(T), —SO₂N(R^(T))₂, or—NR^(T)SO₂R^(T); wherein

-   -   each R^(T) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆        aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(T) groups, on the same substituent or different        substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each group is        bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered monocyclic aryl        ring having 0-3 heteroatoms independently selected from        nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein said monocyclic ring is        optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of        —R^(R), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(R), —SR^(R),        —N(R^(R))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(R), —COR^(R), —CON(R^(R))₂, —OCOR^(R), —NR^(R)COR^(R),        —SO₂R^(R), —SO₂N(R^(R))₂, or —NR^(R)SO₂R^(R); wherein        -   each R^(R) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆            aliphatic;    -   T is (CH₂)_(w);    -   w is 0-2;    -   Ar¹ is selected from a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated ring, a 5-6 membered aryl ring, a 3-7 membered        heterocyclic ring having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected        from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur, a 5-6 membered heteroaryl ring        having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen,        oxygen, or sulfur, or an 8-12 membered saturated, partially        unsaturated, or fully unsaturated bicyclic ring system having        0-5 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or        sulfur; wherein    -   Ar¹ is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences        of —R^(W), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(W), —OR^(W), —N(R^(W)) ₂,        —SR^(W), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,        —C(O)N(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)C(O)R^(W), —SO₂R^(W), —SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —NR^(W)SO₂R^(W), —NR^(W)CON(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)CO₂R^(W), —COR^(W),        —OCOR^(W), —OCON(R^(W))₂, —SOR^(W), —NR^(W)SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —COCOR^(W), —COCH₂COR^(W), —OP(O)(OR^(W))₂, —P(O)(OR^(W))₂,        —PO(OR^(W))(R^(W)), —P(O)(R^(W))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(W))₂; wherein        -   R^(W) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   R^(Q) is selected from halogen, —R^(S), —N(R^(S))₂, —SR^(S),        —OR^(S), C₃₋₁₀ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-10 membered        heteroaryl, 5-10 membered heterocyclyl, oxo, thioxo,        —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —NO₂, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃,        —CO₂R^(S), —COR^(S), —OC(O)R^(S) or —NR^(S)C(O)R^(S); wherein        -   R^(S)is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(Q) or two R^(S) groups, or any combination of an        R^(Q) group with an R^(S) group on the same substituent or        different substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each        group is bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or        partially unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered        monocyclic aryl ring; each ring having 0-3 heteroatoms        independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein        any of said monocyclic ring is optionally substituted with 1-3        independent occurrences of R^(O), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(O),        —SR^(O), —N(R^(O))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(O), —COR^(O), —CON(R^(O))₂, —OCOR^(O), —NR^(O)COR^(O),        —SO₂R^(O), —SO₂N(R^(O))₂, or —NR^(O)SO₂R^(O); wherein        -   R^(O) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   each occurrence of R′ is independently selected from hydrogen or        a C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, a heteroaryl ring having 5-10 ring        atoms, or a heterocyclyl ring having 3-10 ring atoms, or wherein        R and R′ taken together with the atom(s) to which they are        bound, or two occurrences of R′ taken together with the atom(s)        to which they are bound, form a 5-8 membered cycloalkyl,        heterocyclyl, aryl, or heteroaryl ring having 0-3 heteroatoms        independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein        said C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, heteroaryl ring or heterocyclyl        ring is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences        of R^(I), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(I), —SR^(I), —N(R^(I))₂,        —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(I), —COR^(I),        —CONHR^(I), —OCOR^(I), —NR^(I)COR^(I), —SO₂R^(I), —SO₂N(R^(I))₂,        or —NR^(I)SO₂R^(I); wherein        -   R^(I) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; and    -   provided that the following compounds are excluded:

-   1.    3-(4-chloro-3-methyl-isoxazol-5-ylsulfamoyl)-thiophene-2-carboxylic    acid (3-methanesulfonylamino-2,4,6-trimethyl- phenyl)-amide[and the    trifluoroacetic acid salt of 1.];

-   2. 2-Methyl-pyridine-3,5-dicarboxylic acid    5-[(5-tert-butyl-3-methanesulfonylamino-2-methoxy-phenyl)-amide]3-{[4-(pyridin-2-ylmethoxy)-phenyl]-amide};

-   3. 2-Methyl-pyridine-3,5-dicarboxylic acid    5-[(5-tert-butyl-3-methanesulfonylamino-2-methoxy-phenyl)-amide]3-{[4-(pyridin-4-ylmethoxy)-phenyl]-amide};

-   4. 1-(4-Chloro-phenyl)-5-hydroxy-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid    (3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-amide;

-   5. 5-Acetyl-1-(4-chloro-phenyl)-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid    (3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-amide;

-   6.    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-(3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl)-5-vinyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxamide;

-   7. 1-(4-Chloro-phenyl)-5-cyano-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid    (3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-amide;

-   8. 1-(4-Chloro-phenyl)-5-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylic acid    (3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-amide;

-   9. 1-Cyclohexyl-5-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid    (3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-amide;

-   10. 1-p-Tolyl-5-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid    (3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-amide;

-   11. 1-m-Tolyl-5-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid    (3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-amide;

-   12. 1-(3-Chloro-phenyl)-5-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic    acid (3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-amide;

-   13.    1-(1-Benzyl-piperidin-4-yl)-5-trifluoromethyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic    acid (3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-amide;

-   14. 5-Chloro-1H-indole-2-carboxylic    acid{3-[(3-bromo-thiophene-2-carbonyl)-amino]-5-ethanesulfonyl-2-hydroxy-phenyl}-amide;

-   15. 5-Chloro-1H-indole-2-carboxylic    acid{3-[(3-chloro-4-methanesulfonyl-thiophene-2-carbonyl)-amino]-5-ethanesulfonyl-2-hydroxy-phenyl}-amide;

-   16. 5-Chloro-1H-indole-2-carboxylic    acid{5-ethanesulfonyl-2-hydroxy-3-[(4-methyl-[1,2,3]thiadiazole-5-carbonyl)-amino]-phenyl}-amide;

-   17.    2-(4-Fluoro-benzylamino)-N-(3-methanesulfonylamino-5-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-nicotinamide;

-   18.    N-(3-Methanesulfonylamino-5-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-2-[(2-methylamino-pyrimidin-4-ylmethyl)-amino]-nicotinamide;

-   19.    N-(3-Methanesulfonylamino-5-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-2-[(pyridin-4-ylmethyl)-amino]-nicotinamide;

-   20. 5-Chloro-pyridine-2-carboxylic    acid{5-methanesulfonylamino-2-[4-(2-oxo-piperidin-1-yl)-phenylcarbamoyl]-phenyl}-amide;

-   21.    3-(4-Chloro-3-methyl-isoxazol-5-ylsulfamoyl)-thiophene-2-carboxylic    acid(3-methanesulfonylamino-2,4,6-trimethyl-phenyl)-amide;

-   22. 5-Thiazolecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-2-[(4-chlorophenoxy)methyl]-4-methyl-;

-   23. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-6-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)-;

-   24. 2H-1,2,3-Triazole-4-carboxamide,    5-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-2-phenyl-;

-   25. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide, 5-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   26. 3-Furancarboxamide,    2,4,5-trimethyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   27. 1H-Pyrrole-3-carboxylic acid,    2,4-dimethyl-5-[[[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]amino]carbonyl]-, methyl    ester;

-   28. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    4,5-dibromo-N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-;

-   29. 3,5-Pyridinedicarboxamide,    N5-[5-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-2-methoxy-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-2-methyl-N3-[4-(2-pyridinylmethoxy)phenyl]-;

-   30. 3,5-Pyridinedicarboxamide,    N5-[5-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-2-methoxy-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-2-methyl-N3-[4-(4-pyridinylmethoxy)phenyl]-;

-   31. 2-Pyridinecarboxamide,    N-[3-(2-amino-5,6-dihydro-4-methyl-4H-1,3-thiazin-4-yl)-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   32. 2-Pyridinecarboxamide,    N-[3-(2-amino-5,6-dihydro-4-methyl-4H-1,3-thiazin-4-yl)-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-chloro-;

-   33. 2-Pyridinecarboxamide,    N-[3-(2-amino-5,6-dihydro-4-methyl-4H-1,3-thiazin-4-yl)-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-fluoro-;

-   34. 5-Thiazolecarboxamide,    4-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-2-phenyl-;

-   35. 1H-Pyrrole-3-carboxylic acid,    2-ethyl-4-methyl-5-[[[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]amino]carbonyl]-,    methyl ester;

-   36. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide, N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-3-phenyl-;

-   37. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide, 5-bromo-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl];

-   38. 4-Thiazolecarboxamide,    N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-2-[(4-methylphenoxy)methyl]-;

-   39. 2-Furancarboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(phenoxymethyl)-;

-   40. 1H-Pyrrole-3-carboxamide,    1-cyclopropyl-N-[3-[[(4-fluorophenyl)sulfonyl]amino]-4-methoxyphenyl]-2,5-dimethyl-;

-   41. 3-Furancarboxamide, 2,5-dimethyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   42. 4-Pyridinecarboxamide, N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   43. 3-Pyridazinecarboxamide,    N-[3-[[(4-fluorophenyl)sulfonyl]amino]-4-methoxyphenyl]-1,4,5,6-tetrahydro-1-methyl-6-oxo-;

-   44. 3-Pyridazinecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-(2-chlorophenyl)-1,4-dihydro-6-methyl-4-oxo-;

-   45. 1H-Imidazole-5-carboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-2-(methylthio)-1-phenyl-;

-   46. 3-Thiophenecarboxamide,    2,5-dichloro-N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   47. 4-Isoxazolecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-3-ethyl-5-methyl-;

-   48. 1H-Imidazole-5-carboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(methylthio)-;

-   49. 2-Furancarboxamide,    5-(4-acetylphenyl)-N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   50. 2-Pyridinecarboxamide,    3,4,5-trichloro-N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   51. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-6-phenyl-;

-   52. 3-Furancarboxamide, N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-;

-   53. 2H-1,2,3-Triazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-methyl-2-phenyl-;

-   54. 2-Furancarboxamide,    N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-N-[1-(2-phenylethyl)-4-piperidinyl]-,    ethanedioate (1:1);

-   55. 2-Furancarboxamide,    N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-N-[1-(2-phenylethyl)-4-piperidinyl]-;

-   56. 1H-Pyrazole-5-carboxamide,    1-[3-[[[(2S)-2-amino-1-oxopropyl]amino]methyl]phenyl]-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-3-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   57. 4-Pyrimidinecarboxamide,    6-[(2-methoxyethyl)methylamino]-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-2-(4-morpholinyl)-;

-   58. 2-Furancarboxamide, N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   59. 1H-Pyrrole-3-carboxamide,    2,5-dimethyl-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-1-[2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-;

-   60. 1H-Pyrazole-3-carboxamide,    N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-4-methoxy-1-phenyl-;

-   61. 2-Pyridinecarboxamide, N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-;

-   62. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    5-bromo-N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-;

-   63. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-(phenylmethyl)-3-(2-thienyl)-;

-   64. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    5-chloro-N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-3-methyl-1-[(4-methylphenyl)methyl]-;

-   65. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(4-fluorophenyl)-;

-   66. 4-Oxazolecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-methyl-2-phenyl-;

-   67. Pyrazinecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-methyl-;

-   68. 4-Thiazolecarboxamide,    N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-2-[[3-(4-morpholinyl)propyl](2-thienylcarbonyl)amino]-;

-   69. 1H-Imidazole-5-carboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-;

-   70. 2H-1,2,3-Triazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-2-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-5-methyl-;

-   71. 2H-1,2,3-Triazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-2-phenyl-;

-   72. 3-Isoxazolecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-methyl-;

-   73. 4-Isoxazolecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-methyl-3-phenyl-;

-   74. 3-Pyridazinecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1,4,5,6-tetrahydro-6-oxo-1-phenyl-;

-   75. 4-Isoxazolecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-3,5-dimethyl-;

-   76. 2-Furancarboxamide,    N-[2-[1-(1-methylethyl)-1H-pyrazol-4-yl]-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   77. 1H-1,2,4-Triazole-3-carboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1,5-diphenyl-;

-   78. 1H-Pyrrole-2-carboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-methyl-;

-   79. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    N-[3,5-bis(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-6-(3,3-dimethyl-1-butynyl)-;

-   80. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    6-(3,3-dimethyl-1-butynyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   81. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-2-(phenylthio)-;

-   82. 3-Furancarboxamide,    N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-2,5-dimethyl-;

-   83. 4-Pyridinecarboxamide, N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-;

-   84. 2-Furancarboxamide, N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   85. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide, N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   86. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    5-acetyl-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   87. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-ethenyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   88. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-cyano-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   89. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-hydroxy-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   90. 1H-Pyrazole-3-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   91. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-[1-(phenylmethyl)-4-piperidinyl]-5    -(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   92. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-cyclohexyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   93. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-methylphenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   94. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(3-methylphenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   95. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(3-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   96. 1H-Indole-2-carboxamide,    N-[3-[[(3-bromo-2-thienyl)carbonyl]amino]-5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-5    -chloro-;

-   97. 1H-Indole-2-carboxamide,    5-chloro-N-[3-[[[3-chloro-4-(propylsulfonyl)-2-thienyl]carbonyl]amino]-5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-;

-   98. 1H-Indole-2-carboxamide,    5-chloro-N-[3-[[[3-chloro-4-(methylsulfonyl)-2-thienyl]carbonyl]amino]-5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-;

-   99. 1H-Indole-2-carboxamide,    5-chloro-N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxy-3-[[(4-methyl-    1,2,3-thiadiazol-5-yl)carbonyl]amino]phenyl]-;

-   100. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-2-[(4-pyridinylmethyl)thio]-;

-   101. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    5-(2-benzothiazolyl)-N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   102. 3-Furancarboxamide,    N-[4-[2-[(1-methylethyl)amino]ethoxy]-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   103. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide, N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   104. 3-Thiophenecarboxamide,    N-[4-methyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   105. 4-Isoxazolecarboxamide,    5-methyl-N-[4-methyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-3-phenyl-;

-   106. 1,2,3-Thiadiazole-5-carboxamide,    4-methyl-N-[4-methyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   107. 4-Isoxazolecarboxamide, 3,5    -dimethyl-N-[4-methyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl];

-   108. Pyrazinecarboxylic acid,    3-[[[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]amino]carbonyl]-;

-   109. 1H-Pyrazole-5 -carboxamide,    3-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1-ethyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   110. 2-Furancarboxamide, N-[3-[methyl(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   111. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-2-[(4-pyridinylmethyl)amino]-;

-   112. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-[[[2-(methylamino)-4-pyridinyl]methyl]amino]-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-;

-   113. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-[[[2-(methylamino)-4-pyrimidinyl]methyl]amino]-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-;

-   114. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-[[(2-methoxy-4-pyridinyl)methyl]amino]-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl];

-   115. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-(1H-indazol-6-ylamino)-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-;

-   116. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    N-[4-methyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   117. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-[[(4-fluorophenyl)methyl]amino]-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-;

-   118. 1H-Pyrazole-5-carboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-phenyl-;

-   119. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   120. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-[(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfonyl]phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   121. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(3,4-difluorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   122. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(3-fluorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   123. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-[4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl);

-   124. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide, N-[3    -(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-(2-pyrimidinyl)-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   125. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-N-2-propenyl-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   126. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-(cyanomethyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   127. Glycine,    N-[[1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-4-yl]carbonyl]-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-,    ethyl ester;

-   128. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-ethyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   129. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(1,6-dihydro-6-oxo-3-pyridazinyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   130. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(6-chloro-2-pyridinyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   131. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-1-[5-(trifluoromethyl)-2-pyridinyl]-;

-   132. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-(2-pyridinyl)-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   133. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[2-fluoro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-N-methyl-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   134. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-methoxyphenyl]-N-methyl-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   135. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-fluorophenyl)-5-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   136. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-5-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   137. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    5-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-phenyl-;

-   138. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   139. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   140. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-bromophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   141. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   142. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(2-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   143. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-methylphenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   144. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-(phenylmethyl);

-   145. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   146. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(3-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   147. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-[4-[(aminoiminomethyl)amino]phenyl]-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   148. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-aminophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   149. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   150. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[2-fluoro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   151. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-propyl-

-   152. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    5-chloro-1-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   153. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-methoxyphenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   154. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   155. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   156. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-phenyl-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   157. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-phenyl-5-propyl-;

-   158. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   159. 2-Pyridinecarboxamide,    5-chloro-N-[5-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-2-[[[4-(2-oxo-1-piperidinyl)phenyl]amino]carbonyl]phenyl]-;

-   160. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-3-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenoxy]-;

-   161. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide, N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-;

-   162. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(3,4-dimethyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   163. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide, 3-(4-chloro-3-methyl-5    -isoxazolyl)-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   164. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    N-[2-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   165. 1H-Pyrazole-5-carboxamide,    N-[3-fluoro-2-(methylsulfonyl)[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl]-1-[(3-pyridinyl)phenyl]-3-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   166. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4,5-dimethyl-3-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   167. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4,5-dimethyl-3-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl;

-   168. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(3,4-dimethyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   169. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(3-methoxypyrazinyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;

-   170. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[(2,1,3-benzothiadiazol-5-ylamino)sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;

-   171. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4,5-dimethyl-3-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;

-   172. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4-chloro-3-methyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;

-   173. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4,5-dimethyl-3-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;

-   174. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(3,4-dimethyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;

-   175. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4-chloro-3-methyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3    -(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-, monosodium salt;

-   176. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    N-[5-[(1-ethylpropyl)sulfonyl]-2-methoxyphenyl]-;

-   177. 2-Furancarboxamide,    N-[5-[(1-ethylpropyl)sulfonyl]-2-methoxyphenyl]-;

-   178. 4-Isoxazolecarboxamide,    3-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-N-[5-[(1-ethylpropyl)sulfonyl]-2-methoxyphenyl]-5-methyl-;

-   179. 4-Isoxazolecarboxamide, 3-(2-chlorophenyl)-N-[5    -[(1-ethylpropyl)sulfonyl]-2-methoxyphenyl]-5-methyl-;

-   180. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide, N-[2-chloro-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   181. 2,3-Pyridinedicarboxamide,    6-methyl-N3-[2-methyl-3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-N2-propyl-;

-   182. 2-Furancarboxamide,    N-[5-(ethylsulfonyl)-2-hydroxyphenyl]-5-[(5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-3,5,5,8,8-pentamethyl-2-naphthalenyl)methyl]-;

-   183. 3-Furancarboxamide,    N-[4-[2-[(1-methylethyl)amino]ethoxy]-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monohydrochloride;

-   184. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(3-methoxy-2-pyrazinyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   185. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[(2,1,3-benzothiadiazol-5-ylamino)sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   186. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(3,4-dimethyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;

-   187. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4-chloro-5-methyl-3-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   188. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4-chloro-3-methyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;

-   189. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4-chloro-3-methyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-;

-   190. 1H-Pyrazole-3-carboxamide,    N-[3-[(butylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-4-[(3-ethyl-4,5-dimethyl-2(3H)-oxazolylidene)ethylidene]-4,5-dihydro-5-oxo-1-(tetrahydro-1,1-dioxido-3-thienyl)-;

-   191. 1H-Pyrazole-5-carboxamide,    1-methyl-N-[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-3-(trifluoromethyl)-;

-   192. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid,    3-(4-chlorophenyl)-4,5-dihydro-4-methyl-1-[[[3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]amino]carbonyl]-,    methyl ester;

-   193. 1H-Tetrazole-5-carboxamide,    N-[3-acetyl-2-hydroxy-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-1-[(4-methoxyphenyl)methyl]-;    and

-   194. 1H-Tetrazole-5-carboxamide,    N-[3-acetyl-2-hydroxy-5-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a compound offormula I:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein:

Ring B is a 5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl ring having 1-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur,wherein ring B is optionally substituted with up to x occurrences of R³;

X¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are each independently nitrogen or C—R⁴ provided thatX¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are not all simultaneously nitrogen;

R^(A) is selected from SO₂N(R²)₂, SO₂R¹, NR²SO₂R¹;

R¹ is C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to two carbon atoms other than the atomattached to the nitrogen or oxygen atom is optionally replaced with O,S, NR^(N), or C(O);

each R² is independently hydrogen, or C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to twocarbon atoms other than the atom attached to the nitrogen atom isoptionally replaced with O, S, NR^(N), or C(O);

x is 0-4;

each occurrence of R^(N) is independently selected from hydrogen or aC₁₋₆ aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independentoccurrences of —R^(J), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(J), —OR^(J), —N(R^(J))₂,—SR^(J), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,—C(O)N(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)C(O)R^(J), —SO₂R^(J), —SO₂N(R^(J))₂,—NR^(J)SO₂R^(J), —NR^(J)CON(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)CO₂R^(J), —COR^(J),—OCOR^(J), —OCON(R^(J))₂, —SOR^(J), —NR^(J)SO₂N(R^(J))₂, —COCOR^(J),—COCH₂COR^(J), —OP(O)(OR^(J))₂, —P(O)(OR^(J))₂, —PO(OR^(J))(R^(J)),—P(O)(R^(J))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(J))₂; wherein

R^(J) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R³ and R⁴ is independently Q-R^(X);

Q is a bond or is a C₁₋₆ aliphatic chain wherein up to three methyleneunits of Q are optionally and independently replaced by —NH—, —NR—, —O—,—S—, —CO₂—, —OC(O)—, —C(O)CO—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NR—,—C(═N—CN)—, —NHCO—, —NRCO—, —NHC(O)O—, —NRC(O)O—, —SO₂NH—, —SO₂NR—,—NHSO₂—, —NRSO₂—, —NHC(O)NH—, —NRC(O)NH—, —NHC(O)NR—, —NRC(O)NR,—OC(O)NH—, —OC(O)NR—, —NHSO₂NH—, —NRSO₂NH—, —NHSO₂NR—, —NRSO₂NR—, —SO—or —SO₂—; wherein

Q is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R^(Q);

each occurrence of R^(X) is independently selected from —R′, halogen,—NO₂, —CN, —OR′, —SR′, —N(R′)₂, —NR′C(O)R′, —NR′C(O)N(R′)₂, —NR′CO₂R′,—C(O)R′, —CO₂R′, —OC(O)R′, —C(O)N(R′)₂, —OC(O)N(R′)₂, —SOR′, —SO₂R′,—SO₂N(R′)₂, —NR′SO₂R′, —NR′SO₂N(R′)₂, —C(O)C(O)R′, —C(O)CH₂C(O)R′,—OP(O)(OR′)₂, —P(O)(OR′)₂, —PO(OR′)(R′), —P(O)(R′)₂, or —OP(O)(R′)₂;

each occurrence of R is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₆aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrencesof —R^(T), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(T), —SR^(T), —N(R^(T))₂,—NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl,—C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(T), —COR^(T),CON(R^(T))₂ , —OCOR^(T), —NR^(T)COR^(T), —SO₂R^(T), —SO₂N(R^(T))₂, or—NR^(T)SO₂R^(T); wherein

each R^(T) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or

-   -   any two R^(T) groups, on the same substituent or different        substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each group is        bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered monocyclic aryl        ring having 0-3 heteroatoms independently selected from        nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein said monocyclic ring is        optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of        —R^(R), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(R), —SR^(R),        —N(R^(R))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(R), —COR^(R), —CON(R^(R))₂, —OCOR^(R), —NR^(R)COR^(R),        —SO₂R^(R), —SO₂N(R^(R))₂, or —NR^(R)SO₂R^(R); wherein        -   each R^(R) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆            aliphatic;    -   T is (CH₂)_(w);    -   w is 0-2;    -   Ar¹ is selected from a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated ring, a 5-6 membered aryl ring, a 3-7 membered        heterocyclic ring having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected        from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur, a 5-6 membered heteroaryl ring        having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen,        oxygen, or sulfur, or an 8-12 membered saturated, partially        unsaturated, or fully unsaturated bicyclic ring system having        0-5 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or        sulfur; wherein    -   Ar¹ is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences        of —R^(W), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(W), —OR^(W), —N(R^(W))₂, —SR^(W),        —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,        —C(O)N(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)C(O)R^(W), —SO₂R^(W), —SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —NR^(W)SO₂R^(W), —NR^(W)CON(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)CO₂R^(W), —COR^(W),        —OCOR^(W), —OCON(R^(W))₂, —SOR^(W), —NR^(W)SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —COCOR^(W), —COCH₂COR^(W), —OP(O)(OR^(W))₂, —P(O)(OR^(W))₂,        —PO(OR^(W))(R^(W)), —P(O)(R^(W))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(W))₂; wherein        -   R^(W) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   R^(Q) is selected from halogen, —R^(S), —N(R^(S))₂, —SR^(S),        —OR^(S), C₃₋₁₀ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-10 membered        heteroaryl, 5-10 membered heterocyclyl, oxo, thioxo,        —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —NO₂, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃,        —CO₂R^(S), —COR^(S), —OC(O)R^(S) or —NR^(S)C(O)R^(S); wherein        -   R^(S) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(Q) or two R^(S) groups, or any combination of an        R^(Q) group with an R^(S) group on the same substituent or        different substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each        group is bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or        partially unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered        monocyclic aryl ring; each ring having 0-3 heteroatoms        independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein        any of said monocyclic ring is optionally substituted with 1-3        independent occurrences of R^(O), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(O),        —SR^(O), —N(R^(O))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(O), —COR^(O), —CON(R^(O))₂, —OCOR^(O), —NR^(O)COR^(O),        —SO₂R^(O), —SO₂N(R^(O))₂, or —NR^(O)SO₂R^(O); wherein        -   R^(O) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R′ is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₈aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, a heteroaryl ring having 5-10 ring atoms, or aheterocyclyl ring having 3-10 ring atoms, or wherein R and R′ takentogether with the atom(s) to which they are bound, or two occurrences ofR′ taken together with the atom(s) to which they are bound, form a 5-8membered cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, aryl, or heteroaryl ring having 0-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur;wherein said C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, heteroaryl ring or heterocyclylring is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences ofR^(I), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(I), —SR^(I), —N(R^(I))₂, —NO₂,—C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(I), —COR^(I), —CONHR^(I),—OCOR^(I), —NR^(I)COR^(I), —SO₂R^(I), —SO₂N(R^(I))₂, or —NR^(I)SO₂R^(I);wherein

R^(I) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a compound offormula I′:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein:

Ring B is a 5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl ring having 1-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur,wherein ring B is optionally substituted with up to x occurrences of R³;

X¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are each independently nitrogen or C—R⁴ provided thatX¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are not all simultaneously nitrogen;

R^(A) is selected from SO₂N(R²)₂ or NR²SO₂R¹;

R¹ is C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to two carbon atoms other than the atomattached to the nitrogen or oxygen atom is optionally replaced with O,S, NR^(N), or C(O);

each R² is independently hydrogen, or C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to twocarbon atoms other than the atom attached to the nitrogen atom isoptionally replaced with O, S, NR^(N), or C(O);

x is 0-4;

each occurrence of R^(N) is independently selected from hydrogen or aC₁₋₆ aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independentoccurrences of —R^(J), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(J), —OR^(J), —N(R^(J))₂,—SR^(J), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,—C(O)N(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)C(O)R^(J), —SO₂R^(J), —SO₂N(R^(J))₂,—NR^(J)SO₂R^(J), —NR^(J)CON(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)CO₂R^(J), —COR^(J),—OCOR^(J), —OCON(R^(J))₂, —SOR^(J), —NR^(J)SO₂N(R^(J))₂, —COCOR^(J),—COCH₂COR^(J), —OP(O)(OR^(J))₂, —P(O)(OR^(J))₂, —PO(OR^(J))(R^(J)),—P(O)(R^(J))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(J))₂; wherein

R^(J)is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R³ and R⁴ is independently Q-R^(X);

Q is a bond or is a C₁₋₆ aliphatic chain wherein up to three methyleneunits of Q are optionally and independently replaced by —NH—, —NR—, —O—,—S—, —CO₂—, —OC(O)—, —C(O)CO—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NR—,—C(═N—CN)—, —NHCO—, —NRCO—, —NHC(O)O—, —NRC(O)O—, —SO₂NH—, —SO₂NR—,—NHSO₂—, —NRSO₂—, —NHC(O)NH—, —NRC(O)NH—, —NHC(O)NR—, —NRC(O)NR,—OC(O)NH—, —OC(O)NR—, —NHSO₂NH—, —NRSO₂NH—, —NHSO₂NR—, —NRSO₂NR—, —SO—or —SO₂—; wherein

Q is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R^(Q);

each occurrence of R^(X) is independently selected from —R′, halogen,—NO₂, —CN, —OR′, —SR′, —N(R′)₂, —NR′C(O)R′, —NR′C(O)N(R′)₂, —NR′CO₂R′,—C(O)R′,—CO₂R′, —OC(O)R′, —C(O)N(R′)₂, —OC(O)N(R′)₂, —SOR′, —SO₂R′,—SO₂N(R′)₂, —NR′SO₂R′, —NR′SO₂N(R′)₂, —C(O)C(O)R′, —C(O)CH₂C(O)R′,—OP(O)(OR′)₂, —P(O)(OR′)₂, —PO(OR′)(R′), —P(O)(R′)₂, or —OP(O)(R′)₂;

each occurrence of R is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₆aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrencesof —R^(T), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(T), —SR^(T), —N(R^(T))₂,—NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(T), —COR^(T),—CON(R^(T))₂, —OCOR^(T), —NR^(T)COR^(T), —SO₂R^(T), —SO₂N(R^(T))₂, or—NR^(T)SO₂R^(T); wherein

-   -   each R^(T) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆        aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(T) groups, on the same substituent or different        substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each group is        bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered monocyclic aryl        ring having 0-3 heteroatoms independently selected from        nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein said monocyclic ring is        optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of        —R^(R), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(R), —SR^(R),        —N(R^(R))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(R), —COR^(R), —CON(R^(R))₂, —OCOR^(R), —NR^(R)COR^(R),        —SO₂R^(R), —SO₂N(R^(R))₂, or —NR^(R)SO₂R^(R); wherein        -   each R^(R) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆            aliphatic;    -   T is (CH₂)_(w);    -   w is 0-2;    -   Ar¹ is selected from a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated ring, a 5-6 membered aryl ring, a 3-7 membered        heterocyclic ring having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected        from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur, a 5-6 membered heteroaryl ring        having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen,        oxygen, or sulfur, or an 8-12 membered saturated, partially        unsaturated, or fully unsaturated bicyclic ring system having        0-5 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or        sulfur; wherein    -   Ar¹ is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences        of —R^(W), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(W), —OR^(W), —N(R^(W))₂, —SR^(W),        —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,        —C(O)N(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)C(O)R^(W), —SO₂R^(W), —SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —NR^(W)SO₂R^(W), —NR^(W)CON(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)CO₂R^(W), —COR^(W),        —OCOR^(W), —OCON(R^(W))₂, —SOR^(W), —NR^(W)SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —COCOR^(W), —COCH₂COR^(W), —OP(O)(OR^(W))₂, —P(O)(OR^(W))₂,        —PO(OR^(W))(R^(W)), —P(O)(R^(W))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(W))₂; wherein        -   R^(W) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   R^(Q) is selected from halogen, —R^(S), —N(R^(S))₂, —SR^(S),        —OR^(S), C₃₋₁₀ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-10 membered        heteroaryl, 5-10 membered heterocyclyl, oxo, thioxo,        —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —NO₂, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃,        —CO₂R^(S), —COR^(S), —OC(O)R^(S) or —NR^(S)C(O)R^(S); wherein        -   R^(S) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(Q) or two R^(S) groups, or any combination of an        R^(Q) group with an R^(S) group on the same substituent or        different substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each        group is bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or        partially unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered        monocyclic aryl ring; each ring having 0-3 heteroatoms        independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein        any of said monocyclic ring is optionally substituted with 1-3        independent occurrences of R^(O), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(O),        —SR^(O), —N(R^(O))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(O), —COR^(O), —CON(R^(O))₂, —OCOR^(O), —NR^(O)COR^(O),        —SO₂R^(O), —SO₂N(R^(O))₂, or —NR^(O)SO₂R^(O); wherein        -   R^(O) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R′ is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₈aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, a heteroaryl ring having 5-10 ring atoms, or aheterocyclyl ring having 3-10 ring atoms, or wherein R and R′ takentogether with the atom(s) to which they are bound, or two occurrences ofR′ taken together with the atom(s) to which they are bound, form a 5-8membered cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, aryl, or heteroaryl ring having 0-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur;wherein said C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, heteroaryl ring or heterocyclylring is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences ofR^(I), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(I), —SR^(I), —N(R^(I))₂, —NO₂,—C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(I), —COR^(I), —CONHR^(I),—OCOR^(I), —NR^(I)COR^(I), —SO₂R^(I), —SO₂N(R^(I))₂, or —NR^(I)SO₂R^(I);wherein

R^(I) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; and provided that thefollowing compound are excluded:

-   1.    3-(4-chloro-3-methyl-isoxazol-5-ylsulfamoyl)-thiophene-2-carboxylic    acid (3-methanesulfonylamino-2,4,6-trimethyl- phenyl)-amide[and the    trifluoroacetic acid salt of 1.];-   2. 2-Methyl-pyridine-3,5-dicarboxylic acid    5-[(5-tert-butyl-3-methanesulfonylamino-2-methoxy-phenyl)-amide]3-{[4-(pyridin-2-ylmethoxy)-phenyl]-amide};-   3. 2-Methyl-pyridine-3,5-dicarboxylic acid    5-[(5-tert-butyl-3-methanesulfonylamino-2-methoxy-phenyl)-amide]3-{[4-(pyridin-4-ylmethoxy)-phenyl]-amide};-   4.    2-(4-Fluoro-benzylamino)-N-(3-methanesulfonylamino-5-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-nicotinamide;-   5.    N-(3-Methanesulfonylamino-5-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-2-[(2-methylamino-pyrimidin-4-ylmethyl)-amino]-nicotinamide;-   6.    N-(3-Methanesulfonylamino-5-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-2-[(pyridin-4-ylmethyl)-amino]-nicotinamide;-   7. 5-Chloro-pyridine-2-carboxylic    acid{5-methanesulfonylamino-2-[4-(2-oxo-piperidin-1-yl)-phenylcarbamoyl]-phenyl}-amide;-   8.    3-(4-Chloro-3-methyl-isoxazol-5-ylsulfamoyl)-thiophene-2-carboxylic    acid(3-methanesulfonylamino-2,4,6-trimethyl-phenyl)-amide;-   9. 3,5-Pyridinedicarboxamide,    N5-[5-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-2-methoxy-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-2-methyl-N3-[4-(2-pyridinylmethoxy)phenyl]-;-   10. 3,5-Pyridinedicarboxamide,    N5-[5-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-2-methoxy-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-2-methyl-N3-[4-(4-pyridinylmethoxy)phenyl]-;-   11. 2-Furancarboxamide,    N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-N-[1-(2-phenylethyl)-4-piperidinyl]-,    ethanedioate (1:1);-   12. 2-Furancarboxamide,    N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-N-[1-(2-phenylethyl)-4-piperidinyl]-;-   13. 1H-Pyrrole-3-carboxamide,    2,5-dimethyl-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-1-[2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-;-   14. 4-Thiazolecarboxamide,    N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-2-[[3-(4-morpholinyl)propyl](2-thienylcarbonyl)amino]-;-   15. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-2-[(4-pyridinylmethyl)thio]-;-   16. 3-Furancarboxamide,    N-[4-[2-[(1-methylethyl)amino]ethoxy]-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;-   17. 3-Thiophenecarboxamide,    N-[4-methyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;-   18. 4-Isoxazolecarboxamide,    5-methyl-N-[4-methyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-3-phenyl-;-   19. 1,2,3-Thiadiazole-5-carboxamide,    4-methyl-N-[4-methyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;-   20. 4-Isoxazolecarboxamide,    3,5-dimethyl-N-[4-methyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl];-   21. 2-Furancarboxamide, N-[3-[methyl(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;-   22. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-2-[(4-pyridinylmethyl)amino]-;-   23. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-[[[2-(methylamino)-4-pyridinyl]methyl]amino]-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-;-   24. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-[[[2-(methylamino)-4-pyrimidinyl]methyl]amino]-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-;-   25. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-[[(2-methoxy-4-pyridinyl)methyl]amino]-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl];-   26. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-(1H-indazol-6-ylamino)-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-;-   27. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    N-[4-methyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;-   28. 3-Pyridinecarboxamide,    2-[[(4-fluorophenyl)methyl]amino]-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-;-   29. 1H-Pyrazole-4-carboxamide,    1-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-[3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-;-   30. 2-Pyridinecarboxamide,    5-chloro-N-[5-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-2-[[[4-(2-oxo-1-piperidinyl)phenyl]amino]carbonyl]phenyl]-;-   31. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(3,4-dimethyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;-   32. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-(4-chloro-3-methyl-5-isoxazolyl)-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;-   33. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4,5-dimethyl-3-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;-   34. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(3-methoxypyrazinyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;-   35. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[(2,1,3-benzothiadiazol-5-ylamino)sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;-   36. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4,5-dimethyl-3-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;-   37. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4-chloro-3-methyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;-   38. 3-Furancarboxamide,    N-[4-[2-[(1-methylethyl)amino]ethoxy]-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monohydrochloride;-   39. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(3-methoxy-2-pyrazinyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;-   40. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[(2,1,3-benzothiadiazol-5-ylamino)sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;-   41. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(3,4-dimethyl-5-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-,    monosodium salt;-   42. 2-Thiophenecarboxamide,    3-[[(4-chloro-5-methyl-3-isoxazolyl)amino]sulfonyl]-N-[2,4,6-trimethyl-3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-;    and-   43. 1H-Pyrazole-3-carboxamide,    N-[3-[(butylsulfonyl)amino]phenyl]-4-[(3-ethyl-4,5-dimethyl-2(3H)-oxazolylidene)ethylidene]-4,5-dihydro-5-oxo-1-(tetrahydro-    1,1 -dioxido-3-thienyl)-.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a compound offormula I″:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein:

Ring B is a 5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl ring having1-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur,wherein ring B is optionally substituted with up to x occurrences of R³;

X¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are each independently nitrogen or C-R⁴ provided thatX¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are not all simultaneously nitrogen;

each R² is independently hydrogen, or C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to twocarbon atoms other than the atom attached to the nitrogen atom isoptionally replaced with O, S, NR^(N), or C(O);

x is 0-4;

each occurrence of R^(N) is independently selected from hydrogen or aC₁₋₆ aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independentoccurrences of —R^(J), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(J), —OR^(J), —N(R^(J))₂,—SR^(J), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,—C(O)N(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)C(O)R^(J), —SO₂R^(J), —SO₂N(R^(J))₂,—NR^(J)SO₂R^(J), —NR^(J)CON(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)CO₂R^(J), —COR^(J),—OCOR^(J), —OCON(R^(J))₂, —SOR^(J), —NR^(J)SO₂N(R^(J))₂, —COCOR^(J),—COCH₂COR^(J), —OP(O)(OR^(J))₂, —P(O)(OR^(J))₂, —PO(OR^(J))(R^(J)),—P(O)(R^(J))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(J))₂; wherein

R^(J) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R³ and R⁴ is independently Q-R^(X);

Q is a bond or is a C₁₋₆ aliphatic chain wherein up to three methyleneunits of Q are optionally and independently replaced by —NH—, —NR—, —O—,—S—, —CO₂—, —OC(O)—, —C(O)CO—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NR—,—C(═N—CN)—, —NHCO—, —NRCO—, —NHC(O)O—, —NRC(O)O—, —SO₂NH—, —SO₂NR—,—NHSO₂—, —NRSO₂—, —NHC(O)NH—, —NRC(O)NH—, —NHC(O)NR—, —NRC(O)NR,—OC(O)NH—, —OC(O)NR—, —NHSO₂NH—, —NRSO₂NH—, —NHSO₂NR—, —NRSO₂NR—, —SO—or—SO₂—; wherein

Q is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R^(Q);

each occurrence of R^(X) is independently selected from —R′, halogen,—NO₂, —CN, —OR′, —SR′, —N(R′)₂, —NR′C(O)R′, —NR′C(O)N(R′)₂, —NR′CO₂R′,—C(O)R′, —CO₂R′, —OC(O)R′, —C(O)N(R′)₂, —OC(O)N(R′)₂, —SOR′, —SO₂R′,—SO₂N(R′)₂, —NR′SO₂R′, —NR′SO₂N(R′)₂, —C(O)C(O)R′, —C(O)CH₂C(O)R′,—OP(O)(OR′)₂, —P(O)(OR′)₂, —PO(OR′)(R′), —P(O)(R′)₂, or —OP(O)(R′)₂;

each occurrence of R is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₆aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrencesof —R^(T), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(T), —SR^(T), —N(R^(T))₂,—NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(T), —COR^(T),—CON(R^(T))₂, —OCOR^(T), —NR^(T)COR^(T), —SO₂R^(T), —SO₂N(R^(T))₂, or—NR^(T)SO₂R^(T); wherein

each R^(T) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or

-   -   any two R^(T) groups, on the same substituent or different        substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each group is        bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered monocyclic aryl        ring having 0-3 heteroatoms independently selected from        nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein said monocyclic ring is        optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of        —R^(R), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(R), —SR^(R),        —N(R^(R))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(R), —COR^(R), —CON(R^(R))₂, —OCOR^(R), —NR^(R)COR^(R),        —SO₂R^(R), —SO₂N(R^(R))₂, or —NR^(R)SO₂R^(R); wherein        -   each R^(R) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆            aliphatic;    -   T is (CH₂)_(w);    -   w is 0-2;    -   Ar¹ is selected from a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated ring, a 5-6 membered aryl ring, a 3-7 membered        heterocyclic ring having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected        from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur, a 5-6 membered heteroaryl ring        having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen,        oxygen, or sulfur, or an 8-12 membered saturated, partially        unsaturated, or fully unsaturated bicyclic ring system having        0-5 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or        sulfur; wherein    -   Ar¹ is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences        of —R^(W), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(W), —OR^(W), —N(R^(W))₂, —SR^(W),        —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,        —C(O)N(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)C(O)R^(W), —SO₂R^(W), —SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —NR^(W)SO₂R^(W), —NR^(W)CON(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)CO₂R^(W), —COR^(W),        —OCOR^(W), —OCON(R^(W))₂, —SOR^(W), —NR^(W)SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —COCOR^(W), —COCH₂COR^(W), —OP(O)(OR^(W))₂, —P(O)(OR^(W))₂,        —PO(OR^(W))(R^(W)), —P(O)(R^(W))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(W))₂; wherein        -   R^(W) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   R^(Q) is selected from halogen, —R^(S), —N(R^(S))₂, —SR^(S),        —OR^(S), C₃₋₁₀ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-10 membered        heteroaryl, 5-10 membered heterocyclyl, oxo, thioxo,        —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —NO₂, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃,        —CO₂R^(S), —COR^(S), —OC(O)R^(S) or —NR^(S)C(O)R^(S); wherein        -   R^(S) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(Q) or two R^(S) groups, or any combination of an        R^(Q) group with an R^(S) group on the same substituent or        different substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each        group is bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or        partially unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered        monocyclic aryl ring; each ring having 0-3 heteroatoms        independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein        any of said monocyclic ring is optionally substituted with 1-3        independent occurrences of R^(O), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(O),        —SR^(O), —N(R^(O))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(O), —COR^(O), —CON(R^(O))₂, —OCOR^(O), —NR^(O)COR^(O),        —SO₂R^(O), —SO₂N(R^(O))₂, or —NR^(O)SO₂R^(O); wherein        -   R^(O) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R′ is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₈aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, a heteroaryl ring having 5-10 ring atoms, or aheterocyclyl ring having 3-10 ring atoms, or wherein R and R′ takentogether with the atom(s) to which they are bound, or two occurrences ofR′ taken together with the atom(s) to which they are bound, form a 5-8membered cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, aryl, or heteroaryl ring having 0-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur;wherein said C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, heteroaryl ring or heterocyclylring is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R′,halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(I), —SR^(I), —N(R^(I))₂, —NO₂,—C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(I), —COR^(I), —CONHR^(I),—OCOR^(I), —NR^(I)COR^(I), —SO₂R^(I), —SO₂N(R^(I))₂, or —NR^(I)SO₂R^(I);wherein

R^(I) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, ring B is anoptionally substituted 6-membered heteroaryl ring.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, ring B isselected from:

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, ring B is anoptionally substituted 5-membered heteroaryl ring.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, ring B isselected from:

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, ring B isselected from:

In other embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, ring B isselected from:

In yet other embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, ring B isselected from:

In yet other embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, ring B isselected from:

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, x is 1-3.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, x is 1-3, andeach R³ is independently selected from hydrogen, halogen, CN, CF₃, NO₂,or an optionally substituted group selected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, C₁₋₆cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-6 membered heteroaryl, 4-7 memberedheterocyclyl, aralkyl, —N(R′)₂, —CH₂N(R′)₂, —OR′, —CH₂OR′, —SR′,—CH₂SR′, —C(O)R′, —COOR′, —NRCOR′, —CON(R′)₂, —S(O)₂R′, or —S(O)₂N(R′)₂.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, x is 1-2 andeach R³ is methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, sec-butyl or anoptionally substituted group selected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl,5-6 membered heteroaryl, 4-7 membered heterocyclyl or aralkyl.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I or I′, radical:

is selected from:

In some other embodiments of compounds of formula I or I′, radical:

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I″, radical:

is selected from:

In some other embodiments of compounds of formula I or I′, radical:

In some other embodiments of compounds of formula I or I′, radical:

In yet other embodiments of compounds of formula I or I′, radical:

In some other embodiments of compounds of formula I″, radical:

In some other embodiments of compounds of formula I″, radical:

In yet other embodiments of compounds of formula I or I′, radical:

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I or I′, radical:

is selected from ring a-1, a-2 or a-3.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, each R⁴, whenpresent, is hydrogen.

In some other embodiments of compounds of formula I, I′ or I″, each R⁴,when present, is independently selected from hydrogen, halogen, CN, NO₂,or an optionally substituted group selected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, aryl,5-6 membered heteroaryl, 4-7 membered heterocyclyl, aralkyl, —N(R′)₂,—CH₂N(R′)₂, —OR′, —CH₂OR′, —SR′, —CH₂SR′, —C(O)R′, —COOR′, —NR′COR′,—CON(R′)₂, or —S(O)₂N(R′)₂.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula I, R^(A) is selected fromSO₂N(R²)₂ or SO₂R¹. In other embodiments of compounds of formula I,R^(A) is SO₂R¹ and R¹ is C₁₋₆ alkyl.

In some other embodiments of compounds of formula I′, R^(A) is SO₂N(R²)₂and both R² are hydrogen.

In other embodiments of compounds of formula I″, in SO₂N(R²)₂, both R²are hydrogen.

In other embodiments of the present invention a compound has thestructure of formula I-A1, II-A2 or II-A3:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein x, R³, R⁴, R^(N),R^(A) and ring B are defined herein for compounds of formula I.

In other embodiments of the present invention a compound has thestructure of formula II′-A1, II′-A2 or II′-A3:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein x, R³, R⁴, R^(N),R^(A) and ring B are defined herein for compounds of formula I′.

In other embodiments of the present invention a compound has thestructure of formula II″-A1, II″-A2 or II″-A3:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein x, R³, R⁴, R^(N)and ring B are defined herein for compounds of formula I″.

In yet other embodiments of the present invention a compound has thestructure of formula II″-A4:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein x, R³, R⁴, R^(N)and ring B are defined herein for compounds of formula I″.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1,II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4 ring B is an optionallysubstituted 6-membered heteroaryl ring.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1,II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B is selectedfrom:

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1,II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B is anoptionally substituted 5-membered heteroaryl ring.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1,II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B is selectedfrom:

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1,II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B is selectedfrom:

In other embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3,II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B isselected from:

In yet other embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3,II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B isselected from:

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1,II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, x is 1-3. In otherembodiments, x is 1-3, and each R³ is independently selected fromhydrogen, halogen, CN, CF₃, NO₂, or an optionally substituted groupselected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, C₁₋₆ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-6membered heteroaryl, 4-7 membered heterocyclyl, aralkyl, —N(R′)₂,—CH₂N(R′)₂, —OR′, —CH₂OR′, —SR′, —CH₂SR′, —C(O)R′, —COOR′, —NRCOR′,—CON(R′)₂, —S(O)₂R′, or —S(O)₂N(R′)₂. In yet other embodiments, x is 1-2and each R³ is methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, sec-butyl oran optionally substituted group selected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀aryl, 5-6 membered heteroaryl, 4-7 membered heterocyclyl or aralkyl.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1,II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, each R⁴, when present,is hydrogen. In other embodiments, each R⁴, when present, isindependently selected from hydrogen, halogen, CN, NO₂, or an optionallysubstituted group selected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, aryl, 5-6 memberedheteroaryl, 4-7 membered heterocyclyl, aralkyl, —N(R′)₂, —CH₂N(R′)₂,—OR′, —CH₂OR′, —SR′, —CH₂SR′, —C(O)R′, —COOR′, —NR′COR′, —CON(R′)₂, or—S(O)₂N(R′)₂.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2 or II-A3, R^(A)is selected from SO₂N(R²)₂ or SO₂R¹.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2 or II-A3, R^(A)is SO₂N(R²)₂ and both R² are hydrogen.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II-A1, II-A2 or II-A3, R^(A)is SO₂R¹ and R¹ is C₁₋₆ alkyl.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3,R^(A) is SO₂N(R²)₂ and both R² are hydrogen.

In some embodiments of compounds of formula II″-A4, in SO₂N(R²)₂, bothR² are hydrogen.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method ofmodulating a sodium channel comprising the step of contacting saidchannel with a compound of formula I:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein:

Ring B is a 5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl ring having 1-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur,wherein ring B is optionally substituted with up to x occurrences of R³;

X¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are each independently nitrogen or C—R⁴ provided thatX¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are not all simultaneously nitrogen;

R^(A) is selected from SO₂N(R²)₂, SO₂R¹, NR²SO₂R¹;

R¹ is C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to two carbon atoms other than the atomattached to the nitrogen or oxygen atom is optionally replaced with O,S, NR^(N), or C(O);

each R² is independently hydrogen, or C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to twocarbon atoms other than the atom attached to the nitrogen atom isoptionally replaced with O, S, NR^(N), or C(O);

x is 0-4;

each occurrence of R^(N) is independently selected from hydrogen or aC₁₋₆ aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independentoccurrences of —R^(J), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(J), —OR^(J), —N(R^(J))₂,—SR^(J), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,—C(O)N(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)C(O)R^(J), —SO₂R′, —SO₂N(R′)₂, —NR^(J)SO₂R^(J),—NR^(J)CON(R′)₂, —NR^(J)CO₂R^(J), —COR^(J), —OCOR^(J), —OCON(R^(J))₂,—SOR^(J), —NR^(J)SO₂N(R^(J))₂, —COCOR^(J), —COCH₂COR^(J),—OP(O)(OR^(J))₂, —P(O)(OR^(J))₂, —PO(OR^(J))(R^(J)), —P(O)(R^(J))₂, or—OP(O)(R^(J))₂; wherein

R^(J) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R³ and R⁴ is independently Q-R^(X);

Q is a bond or is a C₁₋₆ aliphatic chain wherein up to three methyleneunits of Q are optionally and independently replaced by —NH—, —NR—, —O—,—S—, —CO₂—, —OC(O)—, —C(O)CO—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NR—,—C(═N—CN)—, —NHCO—, —NRCO—, —NHC(O)O—, —NRC(O)O—, —SO₂NH—, —SO₂NR—,—NHSO₂—, —NRSO₂—, —NHC(O)NH—, —NRC(O)NH—, —NHC(O)NR—, —NRC(O)NR,—OC(O)NH—, —OC(O)NR—, —NHSO₂NH—, —NRSO₂NH—, —NHSO₂NR—, —NRSO₂NR—, —SO—or —SO₂—; wherein

Q is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R^(Q);

each occurrence of R^(X) is independently selected from —R′, halogen,—NO₂, —CN, —OR′, —SR′, —N(R′)₂, —NR′C(O)R′, —NR′C(O)N(R′)₂, —NR′CO₂R′,—C(O)R′, —CO₂R′, —OC(O)R′, —C(O)N(R′)₂, —OC(O)N(R′)₂, —SOR′, —SO₂R′,—SO₂N(R′)₂, —NR′SO₂R′, —NR′SO₂N(R′)₂, —C(O)C(O)R′, —C(O)CH₂C(O)R′,—OP(O)(OR′)₂, —P(O)(OR′)₂, —PO(OR′)(R′), —P(O)(R′)₂, or —OP(O)(R′)₂;

each occurrence of R is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₆aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrencesof —R^(T), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(T), —SR^(T), —N(R^(T))₂,—NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(T), —COR^(T),—CON(R^(T))₂, —OCOR^(T), —NR^(T)COR^(T), —SO₂R^(T), —SO₂N(R^(T))₂, or—NR^(T)SO₂R^(T); wherein

each R^(T) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or

-   -   any two R^(T) groups, on the same substituent or different        substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each group is        bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered monocyclic aryl        ring having 0-3 heteroatoms independently selected from        nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein said monocyclic ring is        optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of        —R^(R), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(R), —SR^(R),        —N(R^(R))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(R), —COR^(R), —CON(R^(R))₂, —OCOR^(R), —NR^(R)COR^(R),        —SO₂R^(R), —SO₂N(R^(R))₂, or —NR^(R)SO₂R^(R); wherein        -   each R^(R) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆            aliphatic;    -   T is (CH₂)_(w);    -   w is 0-2;    -   Ar¹ is selected from a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated ring, a 5-6 membered aryl ring, a 3-7 membered        heterocyclic ring having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected        from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur, a 5-6 membered heteroaryl ring        having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen,        oxygen, or sulfur, or an 8-12 membered saturated, partially        unsaturated, or fully unsaturated bicyclic ring system having        0-5 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or        sulfur; wherein    -   Ar¹ is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences        of —R^(W), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(W), —OR^(W), —N(R^(W))₂, —SR^(W),        —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,        —C(O)N(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)C(O)R^(W), —SO₂R^(W), —SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —NR^(W)SO₂R^(W), —NR^(W)CON(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)CO₂R^(W), —COR^(W),        —OCOR^(W), —OCON(R^(W))₂, —SOR^(W), —NR^(W)SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —COCOR^(W), —COCH₂COR^(W), —OP(O)(OR^(W))₂, —P(O)(OR^(W))₂,        —PO(OR^(W))(R^(W)), —P(O)(R^(W))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(W))₂; wherein        -   R^(W) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   R^(Q) is selected from halogen, —R^(S), —N(R^(S))₂, —SR^(S),        —OR^(S), C₃₋₁₀ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-10 membered        heteroaryl, 5-10 membered heterocyclyl, oxo, thioxo,        —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —NO₂, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃,        —CO₂R^(S), —COR^(S), —OC(O)R^(S) or —NR^(S)C(O)R^(S); wherein        -   R^(S) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(Q) or two R^(S) groups, or any combination of an        R^(Q) group with an R^(S) group on the same substituent or        different substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each        group is bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or        partially unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered        monocyclic aryl ring; each ring having 0-3 heteroatoms        independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein        any of said monocyclic ring is optionally substituted with 1-3        independent occurrences of R^(O), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(O),        —SR^(O), —N(R^(O))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(O), —COR^(O), —CON(R^(O))₂, —OCOR^(O), —NR^(O)COR^(O),        —SO₂R^(O), —SO₂N(R^(O))₂, or —NR^(O)SO₂R^(O); wherein        -   R^(O) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R′ is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₈aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, a heteroaryl ring having 5-10 ring atoms, or aheterocyclyl ring having 3-10 ring atoms, or wherein R and R′ takentogether with the atom(s) to which they are bound, or two occurrences ofR′ taken together with the atom(s) to which they are bound, form a 5-8membered cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, aryl, or heteroaryl ring having 0-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur;wherein said C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, heteroaryl ring or heterocyclylring is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences ofR^(I), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(I), —SR^(I), —N(R^(I))₂, —NO₂,—C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂, —COR^(I), —CONHR^(I),—OCOR^(I), —NR^(I)COR^(I), —SO₂R^(I), —SO₂N(R^(I))₂, or —NR^(I)SO₂R^(I);wherein

R^(I) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method ofmodulating a sodium channel comprising the step of contacting saidchannel with a compound of formula I′:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein:

Ring B is a 5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl ring having 1-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur,wherein ring B is optionally substituted with up to x occurrences of R³;

X¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are each independently nitrogen or C—R⁴ provided thatX¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are not all simultaneously nitrogen;

R^(A) is selected from SO₂N(R²)₂ or NR²SO₂R¹;

R¹ is C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to two carbon atoms other than the atomattached to the nitrogen or oxygen atom is optionally replaced with O,S, NR^(N), or C(O);

each R² is independently hydrogen, or C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to twocarbon atoms other than the atom attached to the nitrogen atom isoptionally replaced with O, S, NR^(N), or C(O);

x is 0-4;

each occurrence of R^(N) is independently selected from hydrogen or aC₁₋₆ aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independentoccurrences of —R^(J), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(J), —OR^(J), —N(R^(J))₂,—SR^(J), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,—C(O)N(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)C(O)R^(J), —SO₂R^(J), —SO₂N(R^(J))₂,—NR^(J)SO₂R^(J), —NR^(J)CON(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)CO₂R^(J), —COR^(J),—OCOR^(J), —OCON(R^(J))₂, —SOR^(J), —NR^(J)SO₂N(R^(J))₂, —COCOR^(J),—COCH₂COR^(J), —OP(O)(OR^(J))₂, —P(O)(OR^(J))₂, —PO(OR^(J))(R^(J)),—P(O)(R^(J))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(J))₂; wherein

R^(J) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R³ and R⁴ is independently Q-R^(X);

Q is a bond or is a C₁₋₆ aliphatic chain wherein up to three methyleneunits of Q are optionally and independently replaced by —NH—, —NR—, —O—,—S—, —CO₂—, —OC(O)—, —C(O)CO—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NR—,—C(═N—CN)—, —NHCO—, —NRCO—, —NHC(O)O—, —NRC(O)O—, —SO₂NH—, —SO₂NR—,—NHSO₂—, —NRSO₂—, —NHC(O)NH—, —NRC(O)NH—, —NHC(O)NR—, —NRC(O)NR,—OC(O)NH—, —OC(O)NR—, —NHSO₂NH—, —NRSO₂NH—, —NHSO₂NR—, —NRSO₂NR—, —SO—or—SO₂—; wherein

Q is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R^(Q);

each occurrence of R^(X) is independently selected from —R′, halogen,—NO₂, —CN, —OR′, —SR′, —N(R′)₂, —NR′C(O)R′, —NR′C(O)N(R′)₂, —NR′CO₂R′,—C(O)R′, —CO₂R′, —OC(O)R′, —C(O)N(R′)₂, —OC(O)N(R′)₂, —SOR′, —SO₂R′,—SO₂N(R′)₂, —NR′SO₂R′, —NR′SO₂N(R′)₂, —C(O)C(O)R′, —C(O)CH₂C(O)R′,—OP(O)(OR′)₂, —P(O)(OR′)₂, —PO(OR′)(R′), —P(O)(R′)₂, or —OP(O)(R′)₂;

each occurrence of R is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₆aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrencesof —R^(T), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(T), —SR^(T), —N(R^(T))₂,—NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(T), —COR^(T),—CON(R^(T))₂, —OCOR^(T), —NR^(T)COR^(T), —SO₂R^(T), —SO₂N(R^(T))₂, or—NR^(T)SO₂R^(T); wherein

-   -   each R^(T) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆        aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(T) groups, on the same substituent or different        substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each group is        bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered monocyclic aryl        ring having 0-3 heteroatoms independently selected from        nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein said monocyclic ring is        optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of        —R^(R), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(R), —SR^(R),        —N(R^(R))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(R), —COR^(R), —CON(R^(R))₂, —OCOR^(R), —NR^(R)COR^(R),        —SO₂R^(R), —SO₂N(R^(R))₂, or —NR^(R)SO₂R^(R); wherein        -   each R^(R) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆            aliphatic;    -   T is (CH₂)_(w);    -   w is 0-2;    -   Ar¹ is selected from a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated ring, a 5-6 membered aryl ring, a 3-7 membered        heterocyclic ring having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected        from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur, a 5-6 membered heteroaryl ring        having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen,        oxygen, or sulfur, or an 8-12 membered saturated, partially        unsaturated, or fully unsaturated bicyclic ring system having        0-5 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or        sulfur; wherein    -   Ar¹ is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences        of —R^(W), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(W), —OR^(W), —N(R^(W))₂, —SR^(W),        —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,        —C(O)N(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)C(O)R^(W), —SO₂R^(W), —SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —NR^(W)SO₂R^(W), —NR^(W)CON(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)CO₂R^(W), —COR^(W),        —OCOR^(W), —OCON(R^(W))₂, —SOR^(W), —NR^(W)SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —COCOR^(W), —COCH₂COR^(W), —OP(O)(OR^(W))₂, —P(O)(OR^(W))₂,        —PO(OR^(W))(R^(W)), —P(O)(R^(W))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(W))₂; wherein        -   R^(W) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   R^(Q) is selected from halogen, —R^(S), —N(R^(S))₂, —SR^(S),        —OR^(S), C₃₋₁₀ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5—10 membered        heteroaryl, 5-10 membered heterocyclyl, oxo, thioxo,        —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —NO₂, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃,        —CO₂R^(S), —COR^(S), —OC(O)R^(S) or —NR^(S)C(O)R^(S); wherein        -   R^(S) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(Q) or two R^(S) groups, or any combination of an        R^(Q) group with an R^(S) group on the same substituent or        different substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each        group is bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or        partially unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered        monocyclic aryl ring; each ring having 0-3 heteroatoms        independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein        any of said monocyclic ring is optionally substituted with 1-3        independent occurrences of R^(O), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —ORO,        —SR^(O), —N(R^(O))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(O), —COR^(O), —CON(R^(O))₂, —OCOR^(O), —NR^(O)COR^(O),        —SO₂R^(O), —SO₂N(R^(O))₂, or —NR^(O)SO₂R^(O); wherein        -   R^(O) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   each occurrence of R′ is independently selected from hydrogen or        a C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, a heteroaryl ring having 5-10 ring        atoms, or a heterocyclyl ring having 3-10 ring atoms, or wherein        R and R′ taken together with the atom(s) to which they are        bound, or two occurrences of R′ taken together with the atom(s)        to which they are bound, form a 5-8 membered cycloalkyl,        heterocyclyl, aryl, or heteroaryl ring having 0-3 heteroatoms        independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein        said C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, heteroaryl ring or heterocyclyl        ring is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences        of R^(I), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(I), —SR^(I), —N(R^(I))₂,        —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(I), —COR^(I),        —CONHR^(I), —OCOR^(I), —NR^(I)COR^(I), —SO₂R^(I), —SO₂N(R^(I))₂,        or —NR^(I)SO₂R^(I); wherein        -   R^(I) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic.

In some other embodiments, the present invention provides a method ofmodulating a sodium channel comprising the step of contacting saidchannel with a compound of formula I″:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein:

Ring B is a 5-6 membered monocyclic heteroaryl ring having 1-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur,wherein ring B is optionally substituted with up to x occurrences of R³;

X¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are each independently nitrogen or C—R⁴ provided thatX¹, X², X³ and X⁴ are not all simultaneously nitrogen;

each R² is independently hydrogen, or C₁₋₆ aliphatic, wherein up to twocarbon atoms other than the atom attached to the nitrogen atom isoptionally replaced with O, S, NR^(N), or C(O);

x is 0-4;

each occurrence of R^(N) is independently selected from hydrogen or aC₁₋₆ aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independentoccurrences of —R^(J), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(J), —OR^(J), —N(R^(J))₂,—SR^(J), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,—C(O)N(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)C(O)R^(J), —SO₂R^(J), —SO₂N(R^(J))₂,—NR^(J)SO₂R^(J), —NR^(J)CON(R^(J))₂, —NR^(J)CO₂R^(J), —COR^(J),—OCOR^(J), —OCON(R^(J))₂, —SOR^(J), —NR^(J)SO₂N(R^(J))₂, —COCOR^(J),—COCH₂COR^(J), —OP(O)(OR^(J))₂, —P(O)(OR^(J))₂, —PO(OR^(J))(R^(J)),—P(O)(R^(J))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(J))₂; wherein

R^(J) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R³ and R⁴ is independently Q-R^(X);

Q is a bond or is a C₁₋₆ aliphatic chain wherein up to three methyleneunits of Q are optionally and independently replaced by —NH—, —NR—, —O—,—S—, —CO₂—, —OC(O)—, —C(O)CO—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NR—,—C(═N—CN)—, —NHCO—, —NRCO—, —NHC(O)O—, —NRC(O)O—, —SO₂NH—, —SO₂NR—,—NHSO₂—, —NRSO₂—, —NHC(O)NH—, —NRC(O)NH—, —NHC(O)NR—, —NRC(O)NR,—OC(O)NH—, —OC(O)NR—, —NHSO₂NH—, —NRSO₂NH—, —NHSO₂NR—, —NRSO₂NR—, —SO—or—SO₂—; wherein

Q is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R^(Q);

each occurrence of R^(X) is independently selected from —R′, halogen,—NO₂, —CN, —OR′, —SR′, —N(R′)₂, —NR′C(O)R′, —NR′C(O)N(R′)₂, —NR′CO₂R′,—C(O)R′, —CO₂R′, —OC(O)R′, —C(O)N(R′)₂, —OC(O)N(R′)₂, —SOR′, —SO₂R′,—SO₂N(R′)₂, —NR′SO₂R′, —NR′SO₂N(R′)₂, —C(O)C(O)R′, —C(O)CH₂C(O)R′,—OP(O)(OR′)₂, —P(O)(OR′)₂, —PO(OR′)(R′), —P(O)(R′)₂, or —OP(O)(R′)₂;

each occurrence of R is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₆aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrencesof —R^(T), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(T), —SR^(T), —N(R^(T))₂,—NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(T), —COR^(T),—CON(R^(T))₂, —OCOR^(T), —NR^(T)COR^(T), —SO₂R^(T), —SO₂N(R^(T))₂, or—NR^(T)SO₂R^(T); wherein

-   -   each R^(T) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆        aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(T) groups, on the same substituent or different        substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each group is        bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered monocyclic aryl        ring having 0-3 heteroatoms independently selected from        nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein said monocyclic ring is        optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of        —R^(R), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(R), —SR^(R),        —N(R^(R))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(R), —COR^(R), —CON(R^(R))₂, —OCOR^(R), —NR^(R)COR^(R),        —SO₂R^(R), —SO₂N(R^(R))₂, or —NR^(R)SO₂R^(R); wherein        -   each R^(R) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆            aliphatic;    -   T is (CH₂)_(w);    -   w is 0-2;    -   Ar¹ is selected from a 3-8 membered saturated or partially        unsaturated ring, a 5-6 membered aryl ring, a 3-7 membered        heterocyclic ring having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected        from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur, a 5-6 membered heteroaryl ring        having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen,        oxygen, or sulfur, or an 8-12 membered saturated, partially        unsaturated, or fully unsaturated bicyclic ring system having        0-5 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or        sulfur; wherein    -   Ar¹ is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences        of —R^(W), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(W), —OR^(W), —N(R^(W))₂, —SR^(W),        —NO₂, halogen, —CN, -C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy,        —C(O)N(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)C(O)R^(W), —SO₂R^(W), —SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —NR^(W)SO₂R^(W), —NR^(W)CON(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)CO₂R^(W), —COR^(W),        —OCOR^(W), —OCON(R^(W))₂, —SOR^(W), —NR^(W)SO₂N(R^(W))₂,        —COCOR^(W), —COCH₂COR^(W), —OP(O)(OR^(W))₂, —P(O)(OR^(W))₂,        —PO(OR^(W))(R^(W)), —P(O)(R^(W))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(W))₂; wherein        -   R^(W) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;    -   R^(Q) is selected from halogen, —R^(S), —N(R^(S))₂, —SR^(S),        —OR^(S), C₃₋₁₀ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-10 membered        heteroaryl, 5-10 membered heterocyclyl, oxo, thioxo,        —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —NO₂, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃,        —CO₂R^(S), —COR^(S), —OC(O)R^(S) or —NR^(S)C(O)R^(S); wherein        -   R^(S) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or    -   any two R^(Q) or two R^(S) groups, or any combination of an        R^(Q) group with an R^(S) group on the same substituent or        different substituents, together with the atom(s) to which each        group is bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated or        partially unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered        monocyclic aryl ring; each ring having 0-3 heteroatoms        independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein        any of said monocyclic ring is optionally substituted with 1-3        independent occurrences of R^(O), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(O),        —SR^(O), —N(R^(O))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN,        —CO₂R^(O), —COR^(O), —CON(R^(O))₂, —OCOR^(O), —NR^(O)COR^(O),        —SO₂R^(O), —SO₂N(R^(O))₂, or —NR^(O)SO₂R^(O); wherein        -   R^(O) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic;

each occurrence of R′ is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₈aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, a heteroaryl ring having 5-10 ring atoms, or aheterocyclyl ring having 3-10 ring atoms, or wherein R and R′ takentogether with the atom(s) to which they are bound, or two occurrences ofR′ taken together with the atom(s) to which they are bound, form a 5-8membered cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, aryl, or heteroaryl ring having 0-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur;wherein said C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, heteroaryl ring or heterocyclylring is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences ofR^(I), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(I), —SR^(I), —N(R^(I))₂, —NO₂,—C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(I), —COR^(I), —CONHR^(I),—OCOR^(I), —NR^(I)COR^(I), —SO₂R^(I), —SO₂N(R^(I))₂, or —NR^(I)SO₂R^(I);wherein

R^(I) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic.

In some embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, ring B is anoptionally substituted 6-membered heteroaryl ring.

In some embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, ring B isselected from:

In some embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, ring B is anoptionally substituted 5-membered heteroaryl ring.

In some embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, ring B isselected from:

In some embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, ring B isselected from:

In other embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, ring B isselected from:

In yet other embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, ring Bis selected from:

In some embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, x is 1-3. Inother embodiments, x is 1-3, and each R³ is independently selected fromhydrogen, halogen, CN, CF₃, NO₂, or an optionally substituted groupselected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, C₁₋₆ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-6membered heteroaryl, 4-7 membered heterocyclyl, aralkyl, —N(R′)₂,—CH₂N(R′)₂, —OR′, —CH₂OR′, —SR′, —CH₂SR′, —C(O)R′, —COOR′, —NRCOR′,—CON(R′)₂, —S(O)₂R′, or —S(O)₂N(R′)₂.

In some embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, x is 1-2 andeach R³ is methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, sec-butyl or anoptionally substituted group selected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl,5-6 membered heteroaryl, 4-7 membered heterocyclyl or aralkyl.

In some embodiments of formula I or I′, of the method, radical:

is selected from:

In some other embodiments of compounds of formula I or I′, radical:

In some embodiments of formula I″ of the method, radical:

is selected from:

In some other embodiments of formula I or I′ of the method, radical:

In some other embodiments of formula I or I′ of the method, radical:

In yet other embodiments of formula I or I′ of the method, radical:

In some other embodiments of formula I″ of the method, radical:

In some other embodiments of formula I″ of the method, radical:

In yet other embodiments of formula I or I′ of the method, radical:

In some embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, radical:

is selected from ring a-1, a-2 or a-3.

In some embodiments of formula I, I′, or I″ of the method, each R⁴, whenpresent, is hydrogen. In other embodiments, each R⁴, when present, isindependently selected from hydrogen, halogen, CN, NO₂, or an optionallysubstituted group selected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, aryl, 5-6 memberedheteroaryl, 4-7 membered heterocyclyl, aralkyl, —N(R′)₂, —CH₂N(R′)₂,—OR′, —CH₂OR′, —SR′, —CH₂SR′, —C(O)R′, —COOR′, —NR′COR′, —CON(R′)₂, or—S(O)₂N(R′)₂.

In some embodiments of formula I of the method, R^(A) is selected fromSO₂N(R²)₂ or SO₂R¹.

In some embodiments of formula I or I′ of the method, R^(A) is SO₂R¹ andR¹ is C₁₋₆ alkyl. In other embodiments of formula I or I′ of the method,R^(A) is SO₂N(R²)₂ and both R² are hydrogen.

In some embodiments of formula I″ of the method, in SO₂N(R²)₂, both R²are hydrogen.

In other embodiments of the method of the present invention a compoundhas the structure of formula I-A1, II-A2 or II-A3:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein x, R³, R⁴, R^(N),R^(A) and ring B are defined herein for compounds of formula I.

In other embodiments of the of the method of the present invention acompound has the structure of formula II′-A1, II′-A2 or II′-A3:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein x, R³, R⁴, R^(N),R^(A) and ring B are defined herein for compounds of formula I′.

In other embodiments of the method of the present invention a compoundhas the structure of formula II″-A1, II″-A2 or II″-A3:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein x, R³, R⁴, R^(N)and ring B are defined herein for compounds of formula I″.

In yet other embodiments of the method of the present invention acompound has the structure of formula II″-A4:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein x, R³, R⁴, R^(N)and ring B are defined herein for compounds of formula I″.

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention in compoundsof formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2,II″-A3 or II″-A4 ring B is an optionally substituted 6-memberedheteroaryl ring.

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention in compoundsof formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2,II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B is selected from:

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3,II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B is an optionally substituted5-membered heteroaryl ring.

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention in compoundsof formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3, II″-A1, II″-A2,II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B is selected from:

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3,II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B is selected from:

In other embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3,II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B is selected from:

In yet other embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3,II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, ring B is selected from:

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3,II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, x is 1-3. In other embodiments, x is1-3, and each R³ is independently selected from hydrogen, halogen, CN,CF₃, NO₂, or an optionally substituted group selected from C₁₋₆aliphatic, C₁₋₆ cycloaliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-6 membered heteroaryl, 4-7membered heterocyclyl, aralkyl, —N(R′)₂, —CH₂N(R′)₂, —OR′, —CH₂OR′,—SR′, —CH₂SR′, —C(O)R′, —COOR′, —NRCOR′, —CON(R′)₂, —S(O)₂R′, or—S(O)₂N(R′)₂. In yet other embodiments, x is 1-2 and each R³ is methyl,ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, sec-butyl or an optionallysubstituted group selected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-6 memberedheteroaryl, 4-7 membered heterocyclyl or aralkyl.

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula II-A1, II-A2, II-A3, II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3,II″-A1, II″-A2, II″-A3 or II″-A4, each R⁴, when present, is hydrogen. Inother embodiments, each R⁴, when present, is independently selected fromhydrogen, halogen, CN, NO₂, or an optionally substituted group selectedfrom C₁₋₆ aliphatic, aryl, 5-6 membered heteroaryl, 4-7 memberedheterocyclyl, aralkyl, —N(R′)₂, —CH₂N(R′)₂, —OR′, —CH₂OR′, —SR′,—CH₂SR′, —C(O)R′, —COOR′, —NR′COR′, —CON(R′)₂, or —S(O)₂N(′)₂.

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula I-A1, II-A2 or II-A3, R^(A) is selected fromSO₂N(R²)₂ or SO₂R¹.

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula I-A1, II-A2 or II-A3, R^(A) is SO₂N(R²)₂ and bothR² are hydrogen.

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula I-A1, II-A2 or II-A3, R^(A) is SO₂R¹ and R¹ is C₁₋₆alkyl.

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula II′-A1, II′-A2, II′-A3, R^(A) is SO₂N(R²)₂ and bothR² are hydrogen.

In some embodiments of the methods of the present invention, incompounds of formula II″-A4, in SO₂N(R²)₂, both R² are hydrogen.

TABLE 1 Compounds of formula I:

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

33

34Compositions, Formulations, and Administration of Compounds of theInvention

In another embodiment, the invention provides a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a compound of any of the formulae or classesdescribed herein. In a further embodiment, the invention provides apharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of Table 1.

In a further embodiment, the composition additionally comprises anadditional therapeutic agent.

According to another embodiment, the invention provides a compositioncomprising a compound of this invention or a pharmaceutically acceptablederivative thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, adjuvant,or vehicle. In one embodiment, the amount of compound in a compositionof this invention is such that is effective to measurably inhibitvoltage-gated sodium ion channels. Thus the present compounds are usefulfor the treatment of diseases, disorders, and conditions including, butnot limited to acute, chronic, neuropathic, or inflammatory pain,arthritis, migraine, cluster headaches, trigeminal neuralgia, herpeticneuralgia, general neuralgias, epilepsy or epilepsy conditions,neurodegenerative disorders, psychiatric disorders such as anxiety anddepression, myotonia, arrhythmia, movement disorders, neuroendocrinedisorders, ataxia, multiple sclerosis, irritable bowel syndrome, andincontinence. in a biological sample or in a patient. Preferably thecomposition of this invention is formulated for administration to apatient in need of such composition. Most preferably, the composition ofthis invention is formulated for oral administration to a patient.

The term “patient,” as used herein, means an animal, preferably amammal, and most preferably a human.

It will also be appreciated that certain of the compounds of presentinvention can exist in free form for treatment, or where appropriate, asa pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof. According to thepresent invention, a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative includes,but is not limited to, pharmaceutically acceptable prodrugs, salts,esters, salts of such esters, or any other adduct or derivative whichupon administration to a patient in need is capable of providing,directly or indirectly, a compound as otherwise described herein, or ametabolite or residue thereof.

As used herein, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable salt” refers tothose salts which are, within the scope of sound medical judgment,suitable for use in contact with the tissues of humans and lower animalswithout undue toxicity, irritation, allergic response and the like, andare commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio. A“pharmaceutically acceptable salt” means any non-toxic salt or salt ofan ester of a compound of this invention that, upon administration to arecipient, is capable of providing, either directly or indirectly, acompound of this invention or an inhibitory active metabolite or residuethereof.

Pharmaceutically acceptable salts are well known in the art. Forexample, S. M. Berge et al., describe pharmaceutically acceptable saltsin detail in J. Pharmaceutical Sciences, 66:1-19, 1977, which isincorporated herein by reference. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts ofthe compounds of this invention include those derived from suitableinorganic and organic acids and bases. Examples of pharmaceuticallyacceptable, nontoxic acid addition salts are salts of an amino groupformed with inorganic acids such as hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid,phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid and perchloric acid or with organic acidssuch as acetic acid, oxalic acid, maleic acid, tartaric acid, citricacid, succinic acid or malonic acid or by using other methods used inthe art such as ion exchange. Other pharmaceutically acceptable saltsinclude adipate, alginate, ascorbate, aspartate, benzenesulfonate,benzoate, bisulfate, borate, butyrate, camphorate, camphorsulfonate,citrate, cyclopentanepropionate, digluconate, dodecylsulfate,ethanesulfonate, formate, fumarate, glucoheptonate, glycerophosphate,gluconate, hemisulfate, heptanoate, hexanoate, hydroiodide,2-hydroxy-ethanesulfonate, lactobionate, lactate, laurate, laurylsulfate, malate, maleate, malonate, methanesulfonate,2-naphthalenesulfonate, nicotinate, nitrate, oleate, oxalate, palmitate,pamoate, pectinate, persulfate, 3-phenylpropionate, phosphate, picrate,pivalate, propionate, stearate, succinate, sulfate, tartrate,thiocyanate, p-toluenesulfonate, undecanoate, valerate salts, and thelike. Salts derived from appropriate bases include alkali metal,alkaline earth metal, ammonium and N⁺(C₁₋₄ alkyl)₄ salts. This inventionalso envisions the quaternization of any basic nitrogen-containinggroups of the compounds disclosed herein. Water or oil-soluble ordispersable products may be obtained by such quaternization.Representative alkali or alkaline earth metal salts include sodium,lithium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and the like. Furtherpharmaceutically acceptable salts include, when appropriate, nontoxicammonium, quaternary ammonium, and amine cations formed usingcounterions such as halide, hydroxide, carboxylate, sulfate, phosphate,nitrate, C₁₋₈ sulfonate and aryl sulfonate.

As described above, the pharmaceutically acceptable compositions of thepresent invention additionally comprise a pharmaceutically acceptablecarrier, adjuvant, or vehicle, which, as used herein, includes any andall solvents, diluents, or other liquid vehicle, dispersion orsuspension aids, surface active agents, isotonic agents, thickening oremulsifying agents, preservatives, solid binders, lubricants and thelike, as suited to the particular dosage form desired. In Remington: TheScience and Practice of Pharmacy, 21st edition, 2005, ed. D. B. Troy,Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, and Encyclopedia ofPharmaceutical Technology, eds. J. Swarbrick and J. C. Boylan,1988-1999, Marcel Dekker, New York, the contents of each of which isincorporated by reference herein, are disclosed various carriers used informulating pharmaceutically acceptable compositions and knowntechniques for the preparation thereof. Except insofar as anyconventional carrier medium is incompatible with the compounds of theinvention, such as by producing any undesirable biological effect orotherwise interacting in a deleterious manner with any othercomponent(s) of the pharmaceutically acceptable composition, its use iscontemplated to be within the scope of this invention.

Some examples of materials which can serve as pharmaceuticallyacceptable carriers include, but are not limited to, ion exchangers,alumina, aluminum stearate, lecithin, serum proteins, such as humanserum albumin, buffer substances such as phosphates, glycine, sorbicacid, or potassium sorbate, partial glyceride mixtures of saturatedvegetable fatty acids, water, salts or electrolytes, such as protaminesulfate, disodium hydrogen phosphate, potassium hydrogen phosphate,sodium chloride, zinc salts, colloidal silica, magnesium trisilicate,polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyacrylates, waxes,polyethylene-polyoxypropylene-block polymers, wool fat, sugars such aslactose, glucose and sucrose; starches such as corn starch and potatostarch; cellulose and its derivatives such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose, ethyl cellulose and cellulose acetate; powdered tragacanth;malt; gelatin; talc; excipients such as cocoa butter and suppositorywaxes; oils such as peanut oil, cottonseed oil; safflower oil; sesameoil; olive oil; corn oil and soybean oil; glycols; such a propyleneglycol or polyethylene glycol; esters such as ethyl oleate and ethyllaurate; agar; buffering agents such as magnesium hydroxide and aluminumhydroxide; alginic acid; pyrogen-free water; isotonic saline; Ringer'ssolution; ethyl alcohol, and phosphate buffer solutions, as well asother non-toxic compatible lubricants such as sodium lauryl sulfate andmagnesium stearate, as well as coloring agents, releasing agents,coating agents, sweetening, flavoring and perfuming agents,preservatives and antioxidants can also be present in the composition,according to the judgment of the formulator.

The compositions of the present invention may be administered orally,parenterally, by inhalation spray, topically, rectally, nasally,buccally, vaginally or via an implanted reservoir. The term “parenteral”as used herein includes subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular,intra-articular, intra-synovial, intrastemal, intrathecal, intraocular,intrahepatic, intralesional and intracranial injection or infusiontechniques. Preferably, the compositions are administered orally,intraperitoneally or intravenously. Sterile injectable forms of thecompositions of this invention may be aqueous or oleaginous suspension.These suspensions may be formulated according to techniques known in theart using suitable dispersing or wetting agents and suspending agents.The sterile injectable preparation may also be a sterile injectablesolution or suspension in a non-toxic parenterally acceptable diluent orsolvent, for example as a solution in 1,3-butanediol. Among theacceptable vehicles and solvents that may be employed are water,Ringer's solution and isotonic sodium chloride solution. In addition,sterile, fixed oils are conventionally employed as a solvent orsuspending medium.

For this purpose, any bland fixed oil may be employed includingsynthetic mono- or diglycerides. Fatty acids, such as oleic acid and itsglyceride derivatives are useful in the preparation of injectables, asare natural pharmaceutically-acceptable oils, such as olive oil orcastor oil, especially in their polyoxyethylated versions. These oilsolutions or suspensions may also contain a long-chain alcohol diluentor dispersant, such as carboxymethyl cellulose or similar dispersingagents that are commonly used in the formulation of pharmaceuticallyacceptable dosage forms including emulsions and suspensions. Othercommonly used surfactants, such as Tweens, Spans and other emulsifyingagents or bioavailability enhancers which are commonly used in themanufacture of pharmaceutically acceptable solid, liquid, or otherdosage forms may also be used for the purposes of formulation.

The pharmaceutically acceptable compositions of this invention may beorally administered in any orally acceptable dosage form including, butnot limited to, capsules, tablets, aqueous suspensions or solutions. Inthe case of tablets for oral use, carriers commonly used include lactoseand corn starch. Lubricating agents, such as magnesium stearate, arealso typically added. For oral administration in a capsule form, usefuldiluents include lactose and dried cornstarch. When aqueous suspensionsare required for oral use, the active ingredient is combined withemulsifying and suspending agents. If desired, certain sweetening,flavoring or coloring agents may also be added.

Alternatively, the pharmaceutically acceptable compositions of thisinvention may be administered in the form of suppositories for rectaladministration. These can be prepared by mixing the agent with asuitable non-irritating excipient that is solid at room temperature butliquid at rectal temperature and therefore will melt in the rectum torelease the drug. Such materials include cocoa butter, beeswax andpolyethylene glycols.

The pharmaceutically acceptable compositions of this invention may alsobe administered topically, especially when the target of treatmentincludes areas or organs readily accessible by topical application,including diseases of the eye, the skin, or the lower intestinal tract.Suitable topical formulations are readily prepared for each of theseareas or organs.

Topical application for the lower intestinal tract can be effected in arectal suppository formulation (see above) or in a suitable enemaformulation. Topically-transdermal patches may also be used.

For topical applications, the pharmaceutically acceptable compositionsmay be formulated in a suitable ointment containing the active componentsuspended or dissolved in one or more carriers. Carriers for topicaladministration of the compounds of this invention include, but are notlimited to, mineral oil, liquid petrolatum, white petrolatum, propyleneglycol, polyoxyethylene, polyoxypropylene compound, emulsifying wax andwater. Alternatively, the pharmaceutically acceptable compositions canbe formulated in a suitable lotion or cream containing the activecomponents suspended or dissolved in one or more pharmaceuticallyacceptable carriers. Suitable carriers include, but are not limited to,mineral oil, sorbitan monostearate, polysorbate 60, cetyl esters wax,cetearyl alcohol, 2-octyldodecanol, benzyl alcohol and water.

For ophthalmic use, the pharmaceutically acceptable compositions may beformulated, e.g., as micronized suspensions in isotonic, pH adjustedsterile saline or other aqueous solution, or, preferably, as solutionsin isotonic, pH adjusted sterile saline or other aqueous solution,either with or without a preservative such as benzylalkonium chloride.Alternatively, for ophthalmic uses, the pharmaceutically acceptablecompositions may be formulated in an ointment such as petrolatum. Thepharmaceutically acceptable compositions of this invention may also beadministered by nasal aerosol or inhalation. Such compositions areprepared according to techniques well-known in the art of pharmaceuticalformulation and may be prepared as solutions in saline, employing benzylalcohol or other suitable preservatives, absorption promoters to enhancebioavailability, fluorocarbons, and/or other conventional solubilizingor dispersing agents.

Most preferably, the pharmaceutically acceptable compositions of thisinvention are formulated for oral administration.

Liquid dosage forms for oral administration include, but are not limitedto, pharmaceutically acceptable emulsions, microemulsions, solutions,suspensions, syrups and elixirs. In addition to the active compounds,the liquid dosage forms may contain inert diluents commonly used in theart such as, for example, water or other solvents, solubilizing agentsand emulsifiers such as ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, ethylcarbonate, ethyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, propyleneglycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, dimethylformamide, oils (in particular,cottonseed, groundnut, corn, germ, olive, castor, and sesame oils),glycerol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, polyethylene glycols and fattyacid esters of sorbitan, and mixtures thereof. Besides inert diluents,the oral compositions can also include adjuvants such as wetting agents,emulsifying and suspending agents, sweetening, flavoring, and perfumingagents.

Injectable preparations, for example, sterile injectable aqueous oroleaginous suspensions may be formulated according to the known artusing suitable dispersing or wetting agents and suspending agents. Thesterile injectable preparation may also be a sterile injectablesolution, suspension or emulsion in a nontoxic parenterally acceptablediluent or solvent, for example, as a solution in 1,3-butanediol. Amongthe acceptable vehicles and solvents that may be employed are water,Ringer's solution, U.S.P. and isotonic sodium chloride solution. Inaddition, sterile, fixed oils are conventionally employed as a solventor suspending medium. For this purpose any bland fixed oil can beemployed including synthetic mono- or diglycerides. In addition, fattyacids such as oleic acid are used in the preparation of injectables.

The injectable formulations can be sterilized, for example, byfiltration through a bacterial-retaining filter, or by incorporatingsterilizing agents in the form of sterile solid compositions which canbe dissolved or dispersed in sterile water or other sterile injectablemedium prior to use.

In order to prolong the effect of a compound of the present invention,it is often desirable to slow the absorption of the compound fromsubcutaneous or intramuscular injection. This may be accomplished by theuse of a liquid suspension of crystalline or amorphous material withpoor water solubility. The rate of absorption of the compound thendepends upon its rate of dissolution that, in turn, may depend uponcrystal size and crystalline form. Alternatively, dissolving orsuspending the compound in an oil vehicle accomplishes delayedabsorption of a parenterally administered compound form. Injectabledepot forms are made by forming microencapsule matrices of the compoundin biodegradable polymers such as polylactide-polyglycolide. Dependingupon the ratio of compound to polymer and the nature of the particularpolymer employed, the rate of compound release can be controlled.Examples of other biodegradable polymers include poly(orthoesters) andpoly(anhydrides). Depot injectable formulations are also prepared byentrapping the compound in liposomes or microemulsions that arecompatible with body tissues.

Compositions for rectal or vaginal administration are preferablysuppositories which can be prepared by mixing the compounds of thisinvention with suitable non-irritating excipients or carriers such ascocoa butter, polyethylene glycol or a suppository wax which are solidat ambient temperature but liquid at body temperature and therefore meltin the rectum or vaginal cavity and release the active compound.

Solid dosage forms for oral administration include capsules, tablets,pills, powders, and granules. In such solid dosage forms, the activecompound is mixed with at least one inert, pharmaceutically acceptableexcipient or carrier such as sodium citrate or dicalcium phosphateand/or a) fillers or extenders such as starches, lactose, sucrose,glucose, mannitol, and silicic acid, b) binders such as, for example,carboxymethylcellulose, alginates, gelatin, polyvinylpyrrolidinone,sucrose, and acacia, c) humectants such as glycerol, d) disintegratingagents such as agar-agar, calcium carbonate, potato or tapioca starch,alginic acid, certain silicates, and sodium carbonate, e) solutionretarding agents such as paraffin, f) absorption accelerators such asquaternary ammonium compounds, g) wetting agents such as, for example,cetyl alcohol and glycerol monostearate, h) absorbents such as kaolinand bentonite clay, and i) lubricants such as talc, calcium stearate,magnesium stearate, solid polyethylene glycols, sodium lauryl sulfate,and mixtures thereof. In the case of capsules, tablets and pills, thedosage form may also comprise buffering agents.

Solid compositions of a similar type may also be employed as fillers insoft and hard-filled gelatin capsules using such excipients as lactoseor milk sugar as well as high molecular weight polyethylene glycols andthe like. The solid dosage forms of tablets, dragees, capsules, pills,and granules can be prepared with coatings and shells such as entericcoatings and other coatings well known in the pharmaceutical formulatingart. They may optionally contain opacifying agents and can also be of acomposition that they release the active ingredient(s) only, orpreferentially, in a certain part of the intestinal tract, optionally,in a delayed manner. Examples of embedding compositions that can be usedinclude polymeric substances and waxes. Solid compositions of a similartype may also be employed as fillers in soft and hard-filled gelatincapsules using such excipients as lactose or milk sugar as well as highmolecular weight polethylene glycols and the like.

The active compounds can also be in micro-encapsulated form with one ormore excipients as noted above. The solid dosage forms of tablets,dragees, capsules, pills, and granules can be prepared with coatings andshells such as enteric coatings, release controlling coatings and othercoatings well known in the pharmaceutical formulating art. In such soliddosage forms the active compound may be admixed with at least one inertdiluent such as sucrose, lactose or starch. Such dosage forms may alsocomprise, as is normal practice, additional substances other than inertdiluents, e.g., tableting lubricants and other tableting aids such amagnesium stearate and microcrystalline cellulose. In the case ofcapsules, tablets and pills, the dosage forms may also comprisebuffering agents. They may optionally contain opacifying agents and canalso be of a composition that they release the active ingredient(s)only, or preferentially, in a certain part of the intestinal tract,optionally, in a delayed manner. Examples of embedding compositions thatcan be used include polymeric substances and waxes.

Dosage forms for topical or transdermal administration of a compound ofthis invention include ointments, pastes, creams, lotions, gels,powders, solutions, sprays, inhalants or patches. The active componentis admixed under sterile conditions with a pharmaceutically acceptablecarrier and any needed preservatives or buffers as may be required.Ophthalmic formulation, eardrops, and eye drops are also contemplated asbeing within the scope of this invention. Additionally, the presentinvention contemplates the use of transdermal patches, which have theadded advantage of providing controlled delivery of a compound to thebody. Such dosage forms can be made by dissolving or dispensing thecompound in the proper medium. Absorption enhancers can also be used toincrease the flux of the compound across the skin. The rate can becontrolled by either providing a rate controlling membrane or bydispersing the compound in a polymer matrix or gel.

The compounds of the invention are preferably formulated in dosage unitform for ease of administration and uniformity of dosage. The expression“dosage unit form” as used herein refers to a physically discrete unitof agent appropriate for the patient to be treated. It will beunderstood, however, that the total daily usage of the compounds andcompositions of the present invention will be decided by the attendingphysician within the scope of sound medical judgment. The specificeffective dose level for any particular patient or organism will dependupon a variety of factors including the disorder being treated and theseverity of the disorder; the activity of the specific compoundemployed; the specific composition employed; the age, body weight,general health, sex and diet of the patient; the time of administration,route of administration, and rate of excretion of the specific compoundemployed; the duration of the treatment; drugs used in combination orcoincidental with the specific compound employed, and like factors wellknown in the medical arts.

The amount of the compounds of the present invention that may becombined with the carrier materials to produce a composition in a singledosage form will vary depending upon the host treated, the particularmode of administration. The pharmaceutically acceptable compositions ofthis invention can be administered to humans and other animals orally,rectally, parenterally, intracisternally, intravaginally,intraperitoneally, topically (as by powders, ointments, or drops),bucally, as an oral or nasal spray, or the like, depending on theseverity of the infection being treated. In certain embodiments, thecompounds of the invention may be administered orally or parenterally atdosage levels of about 0.0 1 mg/kg to about 50 mg/kg and preferably fromabout 1 mg/kg to about 25 mg/kg, of subject body weight per day, one ormore times a day, to obtain the desired therapeutic effect.

Depending upon the particular condition, or disease, to be treated orprevented, additional therapeutic agents, which are normallyadministered to treat or prevent that condition, may also be present inthe compositions of this invention. As used herein, additionaltherapeutic agents that are normally administered to treat or prevent aparticular disease, or condition, are known as “appropriate for thedisease, or condition, being treated.”

The amount of additional therapeutic agent present in the compositionsof this invention will be no more than the amount that would normally beadministered in a composition comprising that therapeutic agent as theonly active agent. Preferably the amount of additional therapeutic agentin the presently disclosed compositions will range from about 50% to100% of the amount normally present in a composition comprising thatagent as the only therapeutically active agent.

Uses of the Compounds and Compositions of the Invention

According to one embodiment, the invention relates to a method ofinhibiting sodium channel activity in a biological sample comprising thestep of contacting said biological sample with a compound of thisinvention, or a composition comprising said compound. The term“biological sample,” as used herein, means a sample outside a livingorganism and includes, without limitation, cell cultures or extractsthereof, biopsied material obtained from a mammal or extracts thereof,and blood, saliva, urine, feces, semen, tears, or other body fluids orextracts thereof. Inhibition of sodium channel activity in a biologicalsample is useful for a variety of purposes known to one of skill in theart. Examples of such purposes include, but are not limited to,biological specimen storage and biological assays. In one embodiment,the method of inhibiting sodium channel activity in a biological sampleis limited to non-therapeutic methods.

In some embodiments, the invention relates to a method for treating orlessening the severity in a subject of acute, chronic, neuropathic, orinflammatory pain, arthritis, migraine, cluster headaches, trigeminalneuralgia, herpetic neuralgia, general neuralgias, epilepsy or epilepsyconditions, neurodegenerative disorders, psychiatric disorders such asanxiety and depression, dipolar disorder, myotonia, arrhythmia, movementdisorders, neuroendocrine disorders, ataxia, multiple sclerosis,irritable bowel syndrome, incontinence, visceral pain, osteoarthritispain, postherpetic neuralgia, diabetic neuropathy, radicular pain,sciatica, back pain, head or neck pain, severe or intractable pain,nociceptive pain, breakthrough pain, postsurgical pain, cancer pain,stroke, cerebral ischemia, traumatic brain injury, amyotrophic lateralsclerosis, stress- or exercise induced angina, palpitations,hypertension, migraine, or abnormal gastro-intestinal motility,comprising administering an effective amount of a compound of thepresent invention, or a pharmaceutically acceptable compositioncomprising a compound to a subject in need thereof.

The term “subject”, as used herein, means an animal, preferably amammal, and most preferably a human.

In some embodiments, the invention relates to a method for treating orlessening the severity of acute, chronic, neuropathic, or inflammatorypain.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a method for treating orlessening the severity of radicular pain, sciatica, back pain, headpain, neck pain, intractable pain, acute pain, postsurgical pain, backpain, tinnitus or cancer pain.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a method for treating orlessening the severity of femur cancer pain; non-malignant chronic bonepain; rheumatoid arthritis; osteoarthritis; spinal stenosis; neuropathiclow back pain; neuropathic low back pain; myofascial pain syndrome;fibromyalgia; temporomandibular joint pain; chronic visceral pain,including, abdominal; pancreatic; IBS pain; chronic and acute headachepain; migraine; tension headache, including, cluster headaches; chronicand acute neuropathic pain, including, post-herpetic neuralgia; diabeticneuropathy; HIV-associated neuropathy; trigeminal neuralgia;Charcot-Marie Tooth neuropathy; hereditary sensory neuropathies;peripheral nerve injury; painful neuromas; ectopic proximal and distaldischarges; radiculopathy; chemotherapy induced neuropathic pain;radiotherapy-induced neuropathic pain; post-mastectomy pain; centralpain; spinal cord injury pain; post-stroke pain; thalamic pain; complexregional pain syndrome; phantom pain; intractable pain; acute pain,acute post-operative pain; acute musculoskeletal pain; joint pain;mechanical low back pain; neck pain; tendonitis; injury/exercise pain;acute visceral pain, including, abdominal pain; pyelonephritis;appendicitis; cholecystitis; intestinal obstruction; hernias; etc; chestpain, including, cardiac pain; pelvic pain, renal colic pain, acuteobstetric pain, including, labor pain; cesarean section pain; acuteinflammatory, burn and trauma pain; acute intermittent pain, including,endometriosis; acute herpes zoster pain; sickle cell anemia; acutepancreatitis; breakthrough pain; orofacial pain including sinusitispain, dental pain; multiple sclerosis (MS) pain; pain in depression;leprosy pain; Behcet's disease pain; adiposis dolorosa; phlebitic pain;Guillain-Barre pain; painful legs and moving toes; Haglund syndrome;erythromelalgia pain; Fabry's disease pain; bladder and urogenitaldisease, including, urinary incontinence; hyperactivity bladder; painfulbladder syndrome; interstitial cyctitis (IC); or prostatitis; complexregional pain syndrome (CRPS), type I and type II; or angina-inducedpain.

As described generally above, the compounds of the invention are usefulas inhibitors of voltage-gated sodium ion channels. In one embodiment,the compounds and compositions of the invention are inhibitors of one ormore of NaV1.1, NaV1.2, NaV1.3, NaV1.4, NaV1.5, NaV1.6, NaV1.7, NaV1.8or NaV1.9, and thus, without wishing to be bound by any particulartheory, the compounds and compositions are particularly useful fortreating or lessening the severity of a disease, condition, or disorderwhere activation or hyperactivity of one or more of NaV1.1, NaV1.2,NaV1.3, NaV1.4, NaV1.5, NaV1.6, NaV1.7, NaV1.8 or NaV1.9 is implicatedin the disease, condition, or disorder. When activation or hyperactivityof NaV1.1, NaV1.2, NaV1.3, NaV1.4, NaV1.5, NaV1.6, NaV1.7, NaV1.8 orNaV1.9, is implicated in a particular disease, condition, or disorder,the disease, condition, or disorder may also be referred to as a“NaV1.1, NaV1.2, NaV1.3, NaV1.4, NaV1.5, NaV1.6, NaV1.7, NaV1.8orNaV1.9-mediated disease, condition or disorder”. Accordingly, inanother aspect, the present invention provides a method for treating orlessening the severity of a disease, condition, or disorder whereactivation or hyperactivity of one or more of NaV1.1, NaV1.2, NaV1.3,NaV1.4, NaV1.5, NaV1.6, NaV1.7, NaV1.8 or NaV1.9 is implicated in thedisease state.

The activity of a compound utilized in this invention as an inhibitor ofNaV1.1, NaV1.2, NaV1.3, NaV1.4, NaV1.5, NaV1.6, NaV1.7, NaV1.8 orNaV1.9, may be assayed according to methods described generally in theExamples herein, or according to methods available to one of ordinaryskill in the art.

It will also be appreciated that the compounds and pharmaceuticallyacceptable compositions of the present invention can be employed incombination therapies, that is, the compounds and pharmaceuticallyacceptable compositions can be administered concurrently with, prior to,or subsequent to, one or more other desired therapeutics or medicalprocedures. The particular combination of therapies (therapeutics orprocedures) to employ in a combination regimen will take into accountcompatibility of the desired therapeutics and/or procedures and thedesired therapeutic effect to be achieved. It will also be appreciatedthat the therapies employed may achieve a desired effect for the samedisorder (for example, an inventive compound may be administeredconcurrently with another agent used to treat the same disorder), orthey may achieve different effects (e.g., control of any adverseeffects). As used herein, additional therapeutic agents that arenormally administered to treat or prevent a particular disease, orcondition, are known as “appropriate for the disease, or condition,being treated”. For example, exemplary additional therapeutic agentsinclude, but are not limited to: nonopioid analgesics (indoles such asEtodolac, Indomethacin, Sulindac, Tolmetin; naphthylalkanones such asNabumetone; oxicams such as Piroxicam; para-aminophenol derivatives,such as Acetaminophen; propionic acids such as Fenoprofen, Flurbiprofen,Ibuprofen, Ketoprofen, Naproxen, Naproxen sodium, Oxaprozin; salicylatessuch as Aspirin, Choline magnesium trisalicylate, Diflunisal; fenamatessuch as meclofenamic acid, Mefenamic acid; and pyrazoles such asPhenylbutazone); or opioid (narcotic) agonists (such as Codeine,Fentanyl, Hydromorphone, Levorphanol, Meperidine, Methadone, Morphine,Oxycodone, Oxymorphone, Propoxyphene, Buprenorphine, Butorphanol,Dezocine, Nalbuphine, and Pentazocine). Additionally, nondrug analgesicapproaches may be utilized in conjunction with administration of one ormore compounds of the invention. For example, anesthesiologic(intraspinal infusion, neural blockade), neurosurgical (neurolysis ofCNS pathways), neurostimulatory (transcutaneous electrical nervestimulation, dorsal column stimulation), physiatric (physical therapy,orthotic devices, diathermy), or psychologic (cognitivemethods-hypnosis, biofeedback, or behavioral methods) approaches mayalso be utilized. Additional appropriate therapeutic agents orapproaches are described generally in The Merck Manual, SeventeenthEdition, Ed. Mark H. Beers and Robert Berkow, Merck ResearchLaboratories, 1999; The Merck Manual, Eighteenth Edition, Ed. Mark H.Beers and Robert S. Porter, Merck Research Laboratories, 2006 and theFood and Drug Administration website, www.fda.gov, the entire contentsof which are hereby incorporated by reference.

Those additional agents may be administered separately from thecompound-containing composition, as part of a multiple dosage regimen.Alternatively, those agents may be part of a single dosage form, mixedtogether with the compound of this invention in a single composition. Ifadministered as part of a multiple dosage regime, the two active agentsmay be submitted simultaneously, sequentially or within a period of timefrom one another normally within five hours from one another.

The amount of both, the compound and the additional therapeutic agent(in those compositions which comprise an additional therapeutic agent asdescribed above)) that may be combined with the carrier materials toproduce a single dosage form will vary depending upon the host treatedand the particular mode of administration. Preferably, the compositionsof this invention should be formulated so that a dosage of between0.01-100 mg/kg body weight/day of a compound of formula I can beadministered.

In those compositions that comprise an additional therapeutic agent,that additional therapeutic agent and the compound of this invention mayact synergistically. Therefore, the amount of additional therapeuticagent in such compositions will be less than that required in amonotherapy utilizing only that therapeutic agent. In such compositionsa dosage of between 0.01-100 mg/kg body weight/day of the additionaltherapeutic agent can be administered.

The amount of additional therapeutic agent present in the compositionsof this invention will be no more than the amount that would normally beadministered in a composition comprising that therapeutic agent as theonly active agent. Preferably the amount of additional therapeutic agentin the presently disclosed compositions will range from about 50% to100% of the amount normally present in a composition comprising thatagent as the only therapeutically active agent.

The compounds of this invention or pharmaceutically acceptablecompositions thereof may also be incorporated into compositions forcoating an implantable medical device, such as prostheses, artificialvalves, vascular grafts, stents and catheters. Accordingly, the presentinvention, in another aspect, includes a composition for coating animplantable device comprising a compound of the present invention asdescribed generally above, and in classes and subclasses herein, and acarrier suitable for coating said implantable device. In still anotheraspect, the present invention includes an implantable device coated witha composition comprising a compound of the present invention asdescribed generally above, and in classes and subclasses herein, and acarrier suitable for coating said implantable device. Suitable coatingsand the general preparation of coated implantable devices are describedin U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,099,562; 5,886,026; and 5,304,121. The coatings aretypically biocompatible polymeric materials such as a hydrogel polymer,polymethyldisiloxane, polycaprolactone, polyethylene glycol, polylacticacid, ethylene vinyl acetate, and mixtures thereof. The coatings mayoptionally be further covered by a suitable topcoat of fluorosilicone,polysaccharides, polyethylene glycol, phospholipids or combinationsthereof to impart controlled release characteristics in the composition.Implantable devices coated with a compound of this invention are anotherembodiment of the present invention.

Another aspect of the invention relates to inhibiting NaV1.1, NaV1.2,NaV1.3, NaV1.4, NaV1.5, NaV1.6, NaV1.7, NaV1.8 or NaV1.9 activity in abiological sample or a patient, which method comprises administering tothe patient, or contacting said biological sample with a compound offormula I or a composition comprising said compound. The term“biological sample”, as used herein, includes, without limitation, cellcultures or extracts thereof; biopsied material obtained from a mammalor extracts thereof, and blood, saliva, urine, feces, semen, tears, orother body fluids or extracts thereof.

Inhibition of NaV1.1, NaV1.2, NaV1.3, NaV1.4, NaV1.5, NaV1.6, NaV1.7,NaV1.8 or NaV1.9 activity in a biological sample is useful for a varietyof purposes that are known to one of skill in the art. Examples of suchpurposes include, but are not limited to, biological specimen storage,biological assays, the study of sodium ion channels in biological andpathological phenomena; and the comparative evaluation of new sodium ionchannel inhibitors. In one embodiment, the method of inhibiting sodiumchannel activity in a biological sample is limited to non-therapeuticmethods.

In order that the invention described herein may be more fullyunderstood, the following examples are set forth. It should beunderstood that these examples are for illustrative purposes only andare not to be construed as limiting this invention in any manner.

Preparation of Compounds of the Invention

The following definitions describe terms and abbreviations used herein:

Ac acetyl Bu butyl Et ethyl Ph phenyl Me methyl Boc t-butyloxycarbonylTHF tetrahydrofuran DCM dichloromethane CH₂Cl₂ dicloromethane EtOAcethyl acetate CH₃CN acetonitrile EtOH ethanol MeOH methanol DMFN,N-dimethylformamide DMSO dimethyl sulfoxide HOAc acetic acid TFAtrifluoroacetic acid BOP (benzotriazol-1-yloxytris(dimethylamino)phosphonium hexafluorophosphate) EDC 1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride 4-DMAP 4-dimethylaminopyridine HATU(N-[(dimethylamino)-1-H-1,2,3- triazolo[4,5,6]-pyridin-1-ylmethylene]-N-methylmethanaminium hexafluorophosphate N-oxide) SOCl₂ thionylchloride POCl₃ phosphorus oxychloride Et₃N triethylamine DIPEAdiisopropylethylamine DIEA diisopropylethylamine K₂CO₃ potassiumcarbonate Na₂CO₃ sodium carbonate Cs₂CO₃ cesium carbonate NaHCO₃ sodiumbicarbonate NaOH sodium hydroxide KOH potassium hydroxide LiOH lithiumhydroxide Na₂SO₄ sodium sulfate CuSO₄ copper sulfate (CuOTf)₂•PhH copper(I) triflate benzene complex Et₃OBF₄ triethyloxonium tetrafluoroborate4Å MS 4 angstom molecular sieves LC/MS liquid chromatography/massspectra HPLC high performance liquid chromtagraphy hr hours atmatmospheres rt or RT room temperature

As used herein, other abbreviations, symbols and conventions areconsistent with those used in the contemporary scientific literature.See, e.g., Janet S. Dodd, ed., The ACS Style Guide: A Manual for Authorsand Editors, 2nd Ed., Washington, D.C.: American Chemical Society, 1997,herein incorporated in its entirety by reference.

General Synthetic Procedures

In general, the compounds of this invention may be prepared by methodsdescribed herein or known to those skilled in the art for thepreparation of analogous compounds. In order that the inventiondescribed herein may be more fully understood, the following examplesare set forth. It should be understood that these examples are forillustrative purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting thisinvention in any manner.

Schemes A and B below illustrate exemplary processes for preparingcompounds of formula I. Scheme A was used to prepare compounds 1-4,7-22, 24 and 28-34 in Table 1 of the present invention. Scheme B wasused to prepare compound 23 in Table 1 of the present invention. SchemeC was used to prepare compound 25 in Table 1 of the present invention.Scheme D was used to prepare compounds 26-27 in Table 1 of the presentinvention. Scheme E was used to prepare compounds 5-6 in Table 1 of thepresent invention.

Examples of peptide coupling reagents include DCC(dicyclohexylcarbodiimide), DIC (diisopropylcarbodiimide),di-p-toluoylcarbodiimide, BDP (1-benzotriazolediethylphosphate-1-cyclohexyl-3-(2-morpholinylethyl)carbodiimide), EDC(1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethyl-carbodiimide hydrochloride), cyanuricfluoride, cyanuric chloride, TFFH (tetramethyl fluoroformamidiniumhexafluorophosphosphate), DPPA (diphenylphosphorazidate), BOP(benzotriazol-1-yloxytris(dimethylamino)phosphoniumhexafluorophosphate), HBTU(O-benzotriazol-1-yl-N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyluronium hexafluorophosphate),TBTU (O-benzotriazol-1-yl-N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyluronium tetrafluoroborate), TSTU (O-(N-succinimidyl)-N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyluroniumtetrafluoroborate), HATU(N-[(dimethylamino)-1-H-1,2,3-triazolo[4,5,6]-pyridin-1-ylmethylene]-N-methylmethanaminiumhexafluorophosphate N-oxide), BOP-Cl(bis(2-oxo-3-oxazolidinyl)phosphinic chloride), PyBO((1-H-1,2,3-benzotriazol-1-yloxy)-tris(pyrrolidino)phosphoniumtetrafluorophopsphate), BrOP (bromotris(dimethylamino)phosphoniumhexafluorophosphate), DEPBT(3-(diethoxyphosphoryloxy)-1,2,3-benzotriazin-4(3H)-one), or PyBrOP(bromotris(pyrrolidino)phosphonium hexafluorophosphate). Optionalreagents that may be used in the amide bond-forming reaction includeDMAP (4-dimethylaminopyridine) or active ester reagents, such as HOBT(1-hydroxybenzotriazole), HOAT (hydroxyazabenzotriazole), HOSu(hydroxysuccinimide), HONB(endo-N-hydroxy-5-norbornene-2,3-dicarboxamide).

SYNTHETIC EXAMPLES

General Methods

¹H NMR (400 MHz) and ¹³C NMR (100 MHz) spectra were obtained assolutions in deuteriochloroform (CDCl₃) or dimethyl sulfoxide-D₆ (DMSO).LC/MS data were acquired using a PESciex API-150-EX LC/MS, ShimadzuLC-8A pumps, Gilson 215 autosampler, Gilson 819 injection module, 3.0mL/min flow rate, 10-99% CH₃CN (0.035% TFA)/H₂O (0.05% TFA) gradient,Phenomenex Luna 5u C18 column (50×4.60 mm), Shimadzu SPD-10A UV/Visdetector, Cedex 75 ELSD detector. Silica gel chromatography wasperformed using silica gel-60 with a particle size of 230-400 mesh.Pyridine, dichloromethane (CH₂Cl₂) and tetrahydrofuran (THF) were fromAldrich Sure-Seal bottles kept under dry nitrogen. All reactions werestirred magnetically unless otherwise noted. Unless specified otherwise,all temperatures refer to internal reaction temperatures.

The following preparative examples are set forth in order that thisinvention be more fully understood. These examples are for the purposeof illustration only and are not to be construed as limiting the scopeof the invention in any way.

6-tert-Butyl-N-(3-(aminosulfonyl)phenyl)pyridine-3-carboxamide

A solution of 6-tert-butylpyridine-3-carboxylic acid (18 mg, 0.10 mmol)and HATU (38 mg, 0.10 mmol) in DMF (1 mL) was stirred at roomtemperature for 3 minutes. To this solution was added3-amino-benzenesulfonamide (17 mg, 0. 10 mmol) and triethylamine (28 μL,0.20 mmol). The reaction was stirred at room temperature for 16 h andpurified by preparative reverse phase HPLC using 10%-99% CH₃CN (0.035%TFA)/H₂O (0.05% TFA) to give6-tert-butyl-N-(3-(aminosulfonyl)phenyl)pyridine-3-carboxamide. LC/MS:m/z 334.3 (M+H)⁺ at 1.99 min (10%-99% CH₃CN (0.035% TFA)/H₂O (0.05%TFA)).

Lithium 5-tert-butyl-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-carboxylate

A solution of ethyl 5-tert-butyl-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-carboxylate (0.21g, 1.0 mmol) and lithium hydroxide hydrate (42 mg, 1.0 mmol) in THF (2mL) and water (2 mL) was stirred at room temperature for 18 hours. Thesolvent was removed under vacuum to give lithium5-tert-butyl-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-carboxylate (0.2 g) as a white solidwhich was used without further purification.

5-tert-Butyl-N-(3-sulfamoylphenyl)-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-carboxamide(Compound 23)

A solution of lithium 5-tert-butyl-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-carboxylate (0.2g, 1 mmol) and HATU (0.38 g, 1.0 mmol) in DMF (5 mL) was stirred at roomtemperature for 10 minutes, then 3-amino-benzenesulfonamide (0. 17 g,1.0 mmol) was added. The reaction was stirred for four hours, dilutedwith water, and extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined extracts werewashed with brine and water, dried over sodium sulfate, and evaporated.The residue was purified by column chromatography on silica gel with0-5% methanol in dichloromethane to give5-tert-butyl-N-(3-sulfamoylphenyl)-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-carboxamide (107mg, 31% yield). LC/MS: m/z 341.1 (M+H)⁺ at 2.79 min (10%-99% CH₃CN(0.035% TFA)/H₂O (0.05% TFA)).

Methyl 3-oxo-2-(pivalamido)butanoate

A solution of methyl 2-amino-3-oxobutanoate hydrochloride (0.50 g, 3.0mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (30 mL) was cooled in an ice bath. Pivaloyl chloride(0.37 mL, 3.0 mmol) and triethylamine (0.84 mL, 6.0 mmol) were slowlyadded, and the reaction was allowed to slowly warm to room temperatureovernight. The reaction was washed with water, dried over Na₂SO₄, andconcentrated under vacuum. The residue was purified by silica gelchromatography (0%-3% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂) to obtain methyl3-oxo-2-(pivalamido)butanoate (0.48 g, 74% yield). ¹H NMR (400 MHz,CDCl₃) δ 6.82 (bs, 1H), 5.21 (d, J=6.1 Hz, 1H), 3.82 (s, 3H), 2.39 (s,3H), 1.24 (s, 9H) ppm. LC/MS: m/z 216.5 (M+H)⁺ at 1.98 min (10%-99%CH₃CN (0.035% TFA)/H₂O (0.05% TFA)).

Methyl 2-tert-butyl-5-methyloxazole-4-carboxylate

A solution of methyl 3-oxo-2-(pivalamido)butanoate (0.22 g, 1.0 mmol) inphosphorus oxychloride (1.5 mL) was heated at 110° C. for 30 min. Thereaction was cooled in an ice bath, and saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ wasslowly added until the mixture was basic. The reaction was extractedwith CH₂Cl₂, and the extracts were washed with saturated aqueous NaHCO₃and water, dried over Na₂SO₄, and concentrated under vacuum. The residuewas purified by silica gel chromatography (0%-40% EtOAc-hexanes) toobtain methyl 2-tert-butyl-5-methyloxazole-4-carboxylate (44 mg, 22%yield). ¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃) δ 3.90 (s, 3H, 2.60 (s, 3H), 1.39 (s,9H) ppm. LC/MS: m/z 198.3 (M+H)⁺ at 2.83 min (10%-99% CH₃CN (0.035%TFA)/H₂O (0.05% TFA)).

2-tert-Butyl-5-methyloxazole-4-carboxylic acid

A mixture of methyl 2-tert-butyl-5-methyloxazole-4-carboxylate (44 mg,0.22 mmol) and lithium hydroxide hydrate (47 mg, 1.1 mmol) in THF (1 mL)and water (1 mL) was stirred at room temperature for 19 hours. To thereaction was added 1 M HCl_((aq)) (1.1 mL, 1.1 mmol) and water, and thereaction was extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined extracts werewashed with water, dried over sodium sulfate, and evaporated to give2-tert-butyl-5-methyloxazole-4-carboxylic acid (40 mg, 98% yield) as awhite solid. ¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃) δ 2.61 (s, 3H), 1.38 (s, 9H) ppm.

Ethyl 5-tert-butyl-2-benzyl-2H-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxylate

A solution of ethyl thiooxamate (0.27 g, 2.0 mmol) and triethyloxoniumtetrafluoroborate (0.40 g, 2.1 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (25 mL) was stirred atroom temperature 2 h. The reaction was cooled in an ice bath, and asolution of N′-benzylpivalohydrazide (0.41 g, 2.0 mmol) andtriethylamine (0.28 mL, 2.0 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (10 mL) was slowly added.The cooling bath was removed, and the reaction was heated to reflux for90 min. The solvent was removed under vacuum, and the residue waspurified by silica gel chromatography (0%-25% EtOAc-hexanes) to obtainethyl 5-tert-butyl-2-benzyl-2H-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxylate (0.23 g, 40%yield). ¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃) δ 7.34-7.28 (m, 5H), 5.73 (s, 2H), 4.43(q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 1.40 (s, 9H), 1.38 (t, J=7.7 Hz, 3H) ppm. LC/MS: m/z288.2 (M+H)⁺ at 3.51 min (10%-99% CH₃CN (0.035% TFA)/H₂O (0.05% TFA)).

5-tert-Butyl-2-benzyl-N-(3-(aminosulfonyl)phenyl)-2H-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxamide(Compound 26)

A suspension of ethyl5-tert-butyl-2-benzyl-2H-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxylate (0.10 g 0.35 mmol)and LiOH.H₂O (29 mg, 0.70 mmol) in THF (1 mL) and H₂O (1 mL) was stirredat room temperature 2 h. The solvent was evaporated under vacuum, and tothe residue was added DMF (2 mL) and HATU (0.13 g, 0.35 mmol). Thereaction was stirred for 3 min, then 3-amino-benzenesulfonamide (60 mg,0.35 mmol) was added. The reaction was stirred for 3 h, diluted withwater, and extracted with EtOAc. The organic extracts were washed withwater, dried over Na₂SO₄, and concentrated under vacuum. The residue waspurified by silica gel chromatography (0%-5% MeOH-CH₂Cl₂) to obtain5-tert-butyl-2-benzyl-N-(3-(aminosulfonyl)phenyl)-2H-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxamide(16 mg, 11% yield). LC/MS: m/z 414.3 (M+H)⁺ at 3.46 min (10%-99% CH₃CN(0.035% TFA)/H₂O (0.05% TFA)).

Methyl 5-tert-butyl-2-(bromomethyl)furan-3-carboxylate

A mixture of methyl 5-tert-butyl-2-methylfuran-3-carboxylate (10.4 g, 53mmol), N-bromosuccinimide(9.9 g, 55 mmol), and azobisisobutyronitrile(0.1 g, 0.6 mmol) in carbon tetrachloride (100 mL) was heated to refluxfor 1.5 h. The suspension was cooled to room temperature, andsuccinimide was removed by filtration and rinsed with carbontetrachloride. The combined filtrates were evaporated to dryness. Theresidue was subjected to Kugelrohr distillation (<1 mbar, 110-120° C.)to yield methyl 5-tert-butyl-2-(bromomethyl)furan-3-carboxylate (14.3 g,98% yield) as a light-yellow oil. ¹H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): δ 6.28 (s,1H), 4.80 (s, 2H), 3.85 (s, 3H), 1.28 (s, 9H) ppm.

Methyl 5-tert-butyl-2-((piperidin-1-yl)methyl)furan-3-carboxylate

A solution of methyl 5-tert-butyl-2-(bromomethyl)furan-3-carboxylate(0.28 g, 1.0 mmol) and piperidine (99 μL, 1 mmol) in acetone (5 mL) wasstirred at room temperature 3 days. The mixture was diluted with waterand extracted with EtOAc. The organic extracts were washed with water,dried over Na₂SO₄, and concentrated under vacuum. The residue waspurified by silica gel chromatography (0%-50% EtOAc-hexanes) to obtainmethyl 5-tert-butyl-2-((piperidin-1-yl)methyl)furan-3-carboxylate (41mg, 15% yield). LC/MS: m/z 280.3 (M+H)⁺ at 2.10 min (10%-99% CH₃CN(0.035% TFA)/H₂O (0.05% TFA)).

Analytical Characterization Data for compounds of Table 1 are show belowin Table 2.

TABLE 2 Cmpd LC-MS LC-RT No. M + 1 min 1 408.4 3 2 428.2 3.27 3 337.13.25 4 479.1 3.41 5 543.5 2.42 6 420.3 2.45 7 436.1 3.08 8 436.1 3.05 9428.3 3.13 10 387.3 2.97 11 420.3 2.2 12 434.5 2.27 13 367.3 1.49 14295.5 1.07 15 442.2 3.12 16 394.2 3.03 17 324.4 2.75 18 337.1 3.25 19393.1 3.02 20 479.1 3.41 21 404.2 3.03 22 334.3 1.99 23 341.1 2.79 24354.1 2.79 25 338.3 3.11 26 414.3 3.46 27 338.3 2.85 28 377.2 3.2 29 4111.64 30 344.3 1.51 31 374.2 1.52 32 374.1 1.57 33 367.3 1.49 34 295.51.07Biological Assays of Compounds of the Invention

Assays for Detecting and Measuring NaV Inhibition Properties ofCompounds

A) Optical Methods for Assaying NaV Inhibition Properties of Compounds:

Compounds of the invention are useful as antagonists of voltage-gatedsodium ion channels. Antagonist properties of test compounds wereassessed as follows. Cells expressing the NaV of interest were placedinto microtiter plates. After an incubation period, the cells werestained with fluorescent dyes sensitive to the transmembrane potential.The test compounds were added to the microtiter plate. The cells werestimulated with either a chemical or electrical means to evoke a NaVdependent membrane potential change from unblocked channels, which wasdetected and measured with trans-membrane potential-sensitive dyes.Antagonists were detected as a decreased membrane potential response tothe stimulus. The optical membrane potential assay utilizedvoltage-sensitive FRET sensors described by Gonzalez and Tsien (See,Gonzalez, J. E. and R. Y. Tsien (1995) “Voltage sensing by fluorescenceresonance energy transfer in single cells” Biophys J 69(4): 1272-80, andGonzalez, J. E. and R. Y. Tsien (1997) “Improved indicators of cellmembrane potential that use fluorescence resonance energy transfer” ChemBiol 4(4): 269-77) in combination with instrumentation for measuringfluorescence changes such as the Voltage/Ion Probe Reader (VIPR®) (See,Gonzalez, J. E., K. Oades, et al. (1999) “Cell-based assays andinstrumentation for screening ion-channel targets” Drug Discov Today4(9): 431-439).

B) VIPR® Optical Membrane Potential Assay Method with ChemicalStimulation

Cell Handling and Dye Loading

-   1) 24 hours before the assay on VIPR, CHO cells endogenously    expressing a NaV1.2 type voltage-gated NaV are seeded in 96-well    poly-lysine coated plates at 60,000 cells per well.-   2) On the day of the assay, medium is aspirated and cells are washed    twice with 225 μL of Bath Solution #2 (BS#2).-   3) A 15 uM CC2-DMPE solution is prepared by mixing 5 mM coumarin    stock solution with 10% Pluronic 127 1:1 and then dissolving the mix    in the appropriate volume of BS#2.-   4) After bath solution is removed from the 96-well plates, the cells    are loaded with 80 μL of the CC2-DMPE solution. Plates are incubated    in the dark for 30 minutes at room temperature.-   5) While the cells are being stained with coumarin, a 15 μL oxonol    solution in BS#2 is prepared. In addition to DiSBAC₂(3), this    solution should contain 0.75 mM ABSC1 and 30 μL veratridine    (prepared from 10 mM EtOH stock, Sigma #V-5754).-   6) After 30 minutes, CC2-DMPE is removed and the cells are washed    twice with 225 μL of BS#2. As before, the residual volume should be    40 μL.-   7) Upon removing the bath, the cells are loaded with 80 μL of the    DiSBAC₂(3) solution, after which test compound, dissolved in DMSO,    is added to achieve the desired test concentration to each well from    the drug addition plate and mixed thoroughly. The volume in the well    should be roughly 121 μL. The cells are then incubated for 20-30    minutes.-   8) Once the incubation is complete, the cells are ready to be    assayed on VIPR® with a sodium addback protocol. 120 μL of Bath    solution #1 is added to stimulate the NaV dependent depolarization.    200 μL tetracaine was used as a positive control for complete block    of the NaV channel.

Analysis of VIPR® Data:

Na⁺ addback analysis windows: baseline 2-7 sec, final 15-24 sec.

${\%\mspace{14mu}{Activity}_{{Na}^{+}}} = {\frac{{{Signal}_{{Na}^{+}}({Assay})} - {{Signal}_{{Na}^{+}}({Tetracaine})}}{{{Signal}_{{Na}^{+}}({DMSO})} - {{Signal}_{{Na}^{+}}({Tetracaine})}}*100\%}$Solutions [mM]

Bath Solution #1: NaCl 160, KCl 4.5, CaCl₂ 2, MgCl₂ 1, HEPES 10, pH 7.4with NaOH Bath Solution #2 TMA-Cl 160, CaCl₂ 0.1, MgCl₂ 1, HEPES 10, pH7.4 with KOH (final K concentration ~ 5 mM) CC2-DMPE: prepared as a 5 mMstock solution in DMSO and stored at −20° C. DiSBAC₂(3): prepared as a12 mM stock in DMSO and stored at −20° C. ABSC1: prepared as a 200 mMstock in distilled H₂O and stored at room temperature

Cell Culture

CHO cells are grown in DMEM (Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium; GibcoBRL#10569-010) supplemented with 10% FBS (Fetal Bovine Serum, qualified;GibcoBRL #16140-071) and 1% Pen-Strep (Penicillin-Streptomycin; GibcoBRL#15140-122). Cells are grown in vented cap flasks, in 90% humidity and10% CO₂, to 100% confluence. They are usually split by trypsinization1:10 or 1:20, depending on scheduling needs, and grown for 2-3 daysbefore the next split.

C) VIPR® Optical Membrane Potential Assay Method with ElectricalStimulation

The following is an example of how NaV1.3 inhibition activity ismeasured using the optical membrane potential method#2. Other subtypesare performed in an analogous mode in a cell line expressing the NaV ofinterest.

HEK293 cells stably expressing NaV1.3 are plated into 96-well microtiterplates. After an appropriate incubation period, the cells are stainedwith the voltage sensitive dyes CC2-DMPE/DiSBAC2(3) as follows.

Reagents:

-   100 mg/mL Pluronic F-127 (Sigma #P2443), in dry DMSO-   10 mM DiSBAC₂(3) (Aurora #00-100-010) in dry DMSO-   10 mM CC2-DMPE (Aurora #00-100-008) in dry DMSO-   200 mM ABSC1 in H₂O-   Hank's Balanced Salt Solution (Hyclone #SH30268.02) supplemented    with 10 mM HEPES (Gibco #15630-080)

Loading Protocol:

2×CC2-DMPE=20 μM CC2-DMPE: 10 mM CC2-DMPE is vortexed with an equivalentvolume of 10% pluronic, followed by vortexing in required amount of HBSScontaining 10 mM HEPES. Each cell plate will require 5 mL of 2×CC2-DMPE.50 μL of 2×CC2-DMPE is to wells containing washed cells, resulting in a10 μM final staining concentration. The cells are stained for 30 minutesin the dark at RT.

2×DISBAC₂(3) with ABSC1=6 μM DISBAC₂(3) and 1 mM ABSC1: The requiredamount of 10 mM DISBAC₂(3) is added to a 50 ml conical tube and mixedwith 1 μL 10% pluronic for each mL of solution to be made and vortexedtogether. Then HBSS/HEPES is added to make up 2× solution. Finally, theABSC1 is added.

The 2× DiSBAC₂(3) solution can be used to solvate compound plates. Notethat compound plates are made at 2× drug concentration. Wash stainedplate again, leaving residual volume of 50 μL. Add 50 uL/well of the 2×DiSBAC₂(3) w/ABSC1. Stain for 30 minutes in the dark at RT.

The electrical stimulation instrument and methods of use are describedin ION Channel Assay Methods PCT/US01/21652, herein incorporated byreference. The instrument comprises a microtiter plate handler, anoptical system for exciting the coumarin dye while simultaneouslyrecording the coumarin and oxonol emissions, a waveform generator, acurrent-or voltage-controlled amplifier, and a device for insertingelectrodes in well. Under integrated computer control, this instrumentpasses user-programmed electrical stimulus protocols to cells within thewells of the microtiter plate.

Reagents

Assay buffer #1

-   140 mM NaCl, 4.5 mM KCl, 2 mM CaCl₂, 1 mM MgCl₂, 10 mM HEPES, 10 mM    glucose, pH 7.40, 330 mOsm-   Pluronic stock (1000×): 100 mg/niL pluronic 127 in dry DMSO-   Oxonol stock (3333×): 10 mM DiSBAC₂(3) in dry DMSO-   Coumarin stock (1000×): 10 mM CC2-DMPE in dry DMSO-   ABSC1 stock (400×): 200 mM ABSC1 in water

Assay Protocol

-   -   1 Insert or use electrodes into each well to be assayed.    -   2. Use the current-controlled amplifier to deliver stimulation        wave pulses for 3 s. Two seconds of pre-stimulus recording are        performed to obtain the un-stimulated intensities. Five seconds        of post-stimulation recording are performed to examine the        relaxation to the resting state.

Data Analysis

Data are analyzed and reported as normalized ratios ofbackground-subtracted emission intensities measured in the 460 nm and580 nm channels. Background intensities are then subtracted from eachassay channel. Background intensities are obtained by measuring theemission intensities during the same time periods from identicallytreated assay wells in which there are no cells. The response as afunction of time is then reported as the ratios obtained using thefollowing formula:

${R(t)} = \frac{( {{intensity}_{460\mspace{11mu}{nm}} - {background}_{460\mspace{11mu}{nm}}} )}{( {{intensity}_{580\mspace{11mu}{nm}} - {background}_{580\mspace{11mu}{nm}}} )}$

The data is further reduced by calculating the initial (R_(i)) and final(R_(f)) ratios. These are the average ratio values during part or all ofthe pre-stimulation period, and during sample points during thestimulation period. The response to the stimulus , ρ=R_(f)/R_(i) is thencalculated.

Control responses are obtained by performing assays in the presence of acompound with the desired properties (positive control) and in theabsence of pharmacological agents (negative control). Responses to thenegative (N) and positive (P) controls are calculated as above. Theactivity A of the assay well relative to positive and negative controlsis defined as:

$A = {\frac{N - R}{N - P}.}$

Electrophysiology Assays for NaV Activity and Inhibition of TestCompounds

Patch clamp electrophysiology was used to assess the efficacy andselectivity of sodium channel blockers in dorsal root ganglion neurons.Rat neurons were isolated from the dorsal root ganglions and maintainedin culture for 2 to 10 days in the presence of NGF (50 ng/ml) (culturemedia consisted of NeurobasalA supplemented with B27, glutamine andantibiotics). Small diameter neurons (nociceptors, 8-12 μm in diameter)have been visually identified and probed with fine tip glass electrodesconnected to an amplifier (Axon Instruments). The “voltage clamp” modehas been used to assess the compound's IC50 holding the cells at −60 mV.In addition, the “current clamp” mode has been employed to test theefficacy of the compounds in blocking action potential generation inresponse to current injections. The results of these experiments havecontributed to the definition of the efficacy profile of the compounds.

Voltage-Clamp Assay in DRG Neurons

TTX-resistant sodium currents were recorded from DRG somata using thewhole-cell variation of the patch clamp technique. Recordings were madeat room temperature (˜22° C.) with thick walled borosilicate glasselectrodes (WPI; resistance 3-4 MΩ) using an Axopatch 200B amplifier(Axon Instruments). After establishing the whole-cell configuration,approximately 15 minutes were allowed for the pipette solution toequilibrate within the cell before beginning recording. Currents werelowpass filtered between 2-5 kHz and digitally sampled at 10 kHz. Seriesresistance was compensated 60-70% and was monitored continuouslythroughout the experiment. The liquid junction potential (−7 mV) betweenthe intracellular pipette solution and the external recording solutionwas not accounted for in the data analysis. Test solutions were appliedto the cells with a gravity driven fast perfusion system (SF-77; WarnerInstruments).

Dose-response relationships were determined in voltage clamp mode byrepeatedly depolarizing the cell from the experiment specific holdingpotential to a test potential of +10 mV once every 60 seconds. Blockingeffects were allowed to plateau before proceeding to the next testconcentration.

Solutions

Intracellular solution (in mM): Cs—F (130), NaCl (10), MgCl₂ (1), EGTA(1.5), CaCl₂ (0.1), HEPES (10), glucose (2), pH=7.42, 290 mOsm.

Extracellular solution (in mM): NaCl (138), CaCl₂ (1.26), KCl (5.33),KH₂PO₄ (0.44), MgCl₂ (0.5), MgSO4 (0.41), NaHCO₃ (4), Na₂HPO₄ (0.3),glucose (5.6), HEPES (10), CdCl2 (0.4 ), NiCl2 (0.1), TTX (0.25×10⁻³).

Current-Clamp Assay for NaV Channel Inhibition Activity of Compounds

Cells were current-clamped in whole-cell configuration with a Multiplamp700A amplifier (Axon Inst). Borosilicate pipettes (4-5 MOhm) were filledwith (in mM):150 K-gluconate, 10 NaCl, 0.1 EGTA, 10 Hepes, 2 MgCl₂,(buffered to pH 7.34 with KOH). Cells were bathed in (in mM): 140 NaCl,3 KCl, 1 MgCl, 1 CaCl, and 10 Hepes). Pipette potential was zeroedbefore seal formation; liquid junction potentials were not correctedduring acquisition. Recordings were made at room temperature.

The exemplified compounds of Table 1 herein are active against one ormore sodium channels as measured using the assays described hereinabove.

The compounds of the present invention exhibited activity against NaV1.3 channel.

The activity of selected compounds of the present invention against NaV1.3 channel is shown below in Table 3. In Table 3, the letterdesignations have the following meaning:

“A”means <2 μM; “B”means between 2 μM and 10 μM; “C” means between 10 μMand 20 μM; “D” means >20 μM.

TABLE 3 Cmpd. No. IC₅₀ 3 D 4 D 5 C 6 D 7 D 8 D 9 B 10 D 11 C 12 C 13 C14 D 18 C 19 C 20 D 21 D 22 D 23 D 24 D 25 D 26 D 27 D 29 B 33 C 34 D

The compounds of the present invention exhibited activity against NaV1.7 channel.

The activity of selected compounds of the present invention against NaV1.7 channel is shown below in Table 4. In Table 4, the letterdesignations have the following meaning:

“A” means <2 μM; “B” means between 2 μM and 10 μM; “C” means between 10μM and 20 μM; “D” means >20 μM.

TABLE 4 Cmpd. No. IC₅₀ 3 C 7 B 8 C 9 B 10 D 11 B 12 B 13 C 14 D 18 C 22D 23 D 24 D 25 C 29 C 30 C 31 D 32 D 33 C 34 D

The compounds of the present invention exhibited activity against NaV1.8 channel.

The activity of selected compounds of the present invention against NaV1.8 channel is shown below in Table 5. In Table 5, the letterdesignations have the following meaning:

“A” means <2μM; “B” means between 2 μM and 10 μM; “C” means between 10μM and 20 μM; “D” means >20 μM.

TABLE 5 Cmpd. No. IC₅₀ 3 A 6 B 7 C 8 D 9 B 11 C 12 B 13 A 14 D 18 A 21 D22 C 23 D 25 C 26 C 33 A 34 D

All publications and patents cited in this specification are hereinincorporated by reference as if each individual publication or patentwere specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated byreference. Although the foregoing invention has been described in somedetail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity ofunderstanding, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art in light of the teachings of this invention that certain changesand modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spiritor scope of the appended claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A compound of formula II″-A4:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein: Ring B is isselected from:

each R² is independently hydrogen: x is 0-3; each occurrence of R^(N) isindependently selected from hydrogen each occurrence of R³ isindependently Q-R^(X); each occurrence of R⁴ is independently selectedfrom hydrogen, CN, or NO₂; Q is a bond or is a C₁₋₆ aliphatic chainwherein up to three methylene units of Q are optionally andindependently replaced by —NH—, —NR—, —O—, —S—, —CO₂—, —OC(O)—,—C(O)CO—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, —C(O)NH—, —C(O)NR—, —C(═N—CN)—, —NHCO—,—NRCO—, —NHC(O)O—, —NRC(O)O—, —SO₂NH—, —SO₂NR—, —NHSO₂—, —NRSO₂—,—NHC(O)NH—, —NRC(O)NH—, —NHC(O)NR—, —NRC(O)NR, —OC(O)NH—, —OC(O)NR—,—NHSO₂NH—, —NRSO₂NH—, —NHSO₂NR—, —NRSO₂NR—, —SO— or —SO₂—; wherein Q isoptionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R^(Q); eachoccurrence of R^(X) is independently selected from —R′, halogen, —NO₂,—CN, —OR′, —SR′, —N(R′)₂, —NR′C(O)R′, —NR′C(O)N(R′)₂, —NR′CO₂R′,—C(O)R′, —CO₂R′, —OC(O)R′, —C(O)N(R′)₂, —OC(O)N(R′)₂, —SOR′, —SO₂R′,—SO₂N(R′)₂, —NR′SO₂R′, —NR′SO₂N(R′)₂, —C(O)C(O)R′, —C(O)CH₂C(O)R′,—OP(O)(OR′)₂, —P(O)(OR′)₂, —PO(OR′)(R′), —P(O)(R′)₂, or —OP(O)(R′)₂;each occurrence of R is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₆aliphatic group optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrencesof —R^(T), -T-Ar¹, halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(T), —SR^(T), —N(R^(T))₂,—NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(T), —COR^(T),—CON(R^(T))₂, —OCOR^(T), —NR^(T)COR^(T), —SO₂R^(T), —SO₂N(R^(T))₂, or—NR^(T)SO₂R^(T); wherein each R^(T) is independently hydrogen orunsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or any two R^(T) groups, on the samesubstituent or different substituents, together with the atom(s) towhich each group is bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated orpartially unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered monocyclic arylring having 0-3 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen,oxygen, or sulfur; wherein said monocyclic ring is optionallysubstituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of —R^(R), -T-Ar¹, halogen,oxo, thioxo, —OR^(R), —SR^(R), —N(R^(R))₂, —NO₂, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl,—C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(R), —COR^(R), CON(R^(R))₂, —OCOR^(R),—NR^(R)COR^(R), —SO₂R^(R), —SO₂N(R^(R))₂, or —NR^(R)SO₂R^(R); whereineach R^(R) is independently hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; Tis (CH₂)_(w); w is 0-2; Ar¹ is selected from a 3-8 membered saturated orpartially unsaturated ring, a 5-6 membered aryl ring, a 3-7 memberedheterocyclic ring having 1-3 heteroatoms independently selected fromnitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur, a 5-6 membered heteroaryl ring having 1-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur, oran 8-12 membered saturated, partially unsaturated, or fully unsaturatedbicyclic ring system having 0-5 heteroatoms independently selected fromnitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein Ar¹ is optionally substituted with1-3 independent occurrences of —R^(W), oxo, thioxo, —CO₂R^(W), —OR^(W),—N(R^(W))₂, —SR^(W), —NO₂, halogen, —CN, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl,—C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —C(O)N(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)C(O)R^(W), —SO₂R^(W),—SO₂N(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)SO₂R^(W), —NR^(W)CON(R^(W))₂, —NR^(W)CO₂R^(W),—COR^(W), —OCOR^(W), —OCON(R^(W))₂, —SOR^(W), —NR^(W)SO₂N(R^(W))₂,—COCOR^(W), —COCH₂COR^(W), —OP(O)(OR^(W))₂, —P(O)(OR^(W))₂,—PO(OR^(W))(R^(W)), —P(O)(R^(W))₂, or —OP(O)(R^(W))₂; wherein R^(W) ishydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; R^(Q) is selected fromhalogen, —R^(S), —N(R^(S))₂, —SR^(S), —OR^(S), C₃₋₁₀ cycloaliphatic,C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-10 membered heteroaryl, 5-10 membered heterocyclyl, oxo,thioxo, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —NO₂, —CN, —CF₃, —OCF₃,—CO₂R^(S), —COR^(S), —OC(O)R^(S) or —NR^(S)C(O)R^(S); wherein R^(S) ishydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; or any two R^(Q) or two R^(S)groups, or any combination of an R^(Q) group with an R^(S) group on thesame substituent or different substituents, together with the atom(s) towhich each group is bound, optionally form a 3-8 membered saturated orpartially unsaturated monocyclic ring, or a 5-6 membered monocyclic arylring; each ring having 0-3 heteroatoms independently selected fromnitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur; wherein any of said monocyclic ring isoptionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences of R^(O),halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(O), —SR^(O), —N(R^(O))₂, —NO₂,—C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(O), —COR^(O), —CON(R^(O))₂,—OCOR^(O), —NR^(O)COR^(O), —SO₂R^(O), —SO₂N(R^(O))₂, or —NR^(O)SO₂R^(O);wherein R^(O) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic; eachoccurrence of R′ is independently selected from hydrogen or a C₁₋₈aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, a heteroaryl ring having 5-10 ring atoms, or aheterocyclyl ring having 3-10 ring atoms, or wherein R and R′ takentogether with the atom(s) to which they are bound, or two occurrences ofR′ taken together with the atom(s) to which they are bound, form a 5-8membered cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl, aryl, or heteroaryl ring having 0-3heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur;wherein said C₁₋₈ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, heteroaryl ring or heterocyclylring is optionally substituted with 1-3 independent occurrences ofR^(I), halogen, oxo, thioxo, —OR^(I), —SR^(I), —N(R^(I))₂, —NO₂,—C₁₋₄haloalkyl, —C₁₋₄haloalkoxy, —CN, —CO₂R^(I), —COR^(I), —CONHR^(I),—OCOR^(I), —NR^(I)COR^(I), —SO₂R^(I), —SO₂N(R^(I))₂, or —NR^(I)SO₂R^(I);wherein R^(I) is hydrogen or unsubstituted C₁₋₆ aliphatic.
 2. Thecompound according to claim 1, wherein ring B is an optionallysubstituted 6-membered heteroaryl ring.
 3. The compound according toclaim 2, wherein ring B is selected from:


4. The compound according claim 1, wherein ring B is selected from:


5. The compound according to claim 1, wherein x is 1-3.
 6. The compoundaccording to claim 5, wherein x is 1-3, and each R³ is independentlyselected from hydrogen, halogen, CN, CF₃, NO₂, or an optionallysubstituted group selected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, C₁₋₆ cycloaliphatic,C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-6 membered heteroaryl, 4-7 membered heterocyclyl, aralkyl,—N(R′)₂, —CH₂N(R′)₂, —OR′, —CH₂OR′, —SR′, —CH₂SR′, —C(O)R′, —COOR′,—NRCOR′, —CON(R′)₂, —S(O)₂R′, or —S(O)₂N(R′)₂.
 7. The compound accordingto claim 6, wherein x is 1-2 and each R³ is methyl, ethyl, propyl,isopropyl, t-butyl, sec-butyl or an optionally substituted groupselected from C₁₋₆ aliphatic, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, 5-6 membered heteroaryl, 4-7membered heterocyclyl or aralkyl.
 8. The compound according to claim 1,wherein each R⁴ is hydrogen.
 9. A compound selected from:


10. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of claim 1, and apharmaceutically acceptable carrier, adjuvant, or vehicle.
 11. Thepharmaceutical composition according to claim 10, further comprising anadditional therapeutic agent.
 12. A method of treating or lessening theseverity in a subject of acute pain, radicular pain, sciatica, backpain, head or neck pain, intractable pain, postsurgical pain, comprisingadministering an effective amount of a compound according to claim 1 ora pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising a compound to saidsubject in need thereof.